Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi might have to go on leave from his party duties after being charged with corruption and money-laundering offences today.

His deputy, Mohamad Hasan, told reporters that Umno had set a standard operating procedure (SOP) in 2009 which requires its high-ranking leaders to go on leave when they face criminal charges in court.

"It (the practice) used to be to suspend leaders who are facing charges, but the new SOP amended in 2009 requires high-ranking party leaders who are charged, to take leave.

"However, if they are later found not guilty, the leaders can resume their positions," Mohamad said outside the Kuala Lumpur Courts Complex at 10.20am today.

He added that the SOP was made with the aim of protecting Umno from being accused or associated with any wrongdoing.

Mohamad, better known as Tok Mat among Umno members, said the matter would be discussed by the party's management committee.

Recommendations from the meeting, he added, would then be brought to the Umno supreme council for a decision.

Mohamad's comments come as Zahid was slapped with a total of 45 corruption and money laundering charges at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court this morning.

Mohamad also called on Umno members to stay calm in the face of the new development, and that pressures being mounted on Umno today would not weaken the party but only strengthen their spirit to continue Umno's struggle.

"Umno is a party that has always trusted and respected public institutions. Thus, we hope and believe that the MACC, police and judiciary will be able to carry out their duties professionally and without prejudice.

"I hope all Umno members will remain calm. Let the process of justice run as we hope. Let them discharge their duties professionally, without prejudice or any form of pressure," said the former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar.

He said Umno does not belong to any individual, and thus, any attempt to weaken Umno by putting pressure on its leaders would not be able to break the party's spirit. 

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