Quitting Umno won't solve money woes, Bung tells party quitters
Newly-minted Sabah Umno chief Bung Moktar Radin said elected representatives quitting their party will not solve their money woes.
Bung admitted that Sabah Umno was facing funding constraints but said it should not be a reason for quitting.
"I don't see how they can get money by quitting...
Newly-minted Sabah Umno chief Bung Moktar Radin said elected representatives quitting their party will not solve their money woes.
Bung admitted that Sabah Umno was facing funding constraints but said it should not be a reason for quitting.
"I don't see how they can get money by quitting.
"They should become like the previous opposition. In the past, leaders in Pakatan Harapan also struggled against BN for 40 years without resorting to party hopping," he told Malaysiakini.
On Thursday, four MPs, nine assemblypersons and two senators in Sabah quit Umno while PBRS, which has one MP, also quit BN.
Another six MPs in Peninsular Malaysia exited Umno yesterday, relegating it to the third largest party in the Dewan Rakyat after PKR and DAP.
"It's only been seven months in the opposition but these Umno leaders who used to benefit from Umno and the previous government now appear like they have lost their source of funding and direction.
"It is true that Umno is facing financial problems but we need to let the people know that in defeat, we can put up a more spirited struggle," he said.
Prior to the exodus, Umno secretary-general Annuar Musa had confirmed the impending exit, claiming the elected representatives were short of funds.
Bung, who has taken over of what remains of Sabah Umno, said the grassroots welcome his leadership.
"I fight according to my instinct. I see Umno not only as a party, but a struggle. So, it is a mistake for leaders to quit Umno and leave the grassroots to fend for themselves.
"Many grassroots members have contacted me to say that they are happy with my leadership and are working hard to ensure Umno's strength is restored.”
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