Najib grateful for Umno's support ahead of solidarity rally

Summary

• Najib Abdul Razak, through his son, expresses deep appreciation for the unwavering support from Umno leaders, members, and supporters ahead of the Solidarity 4 Najib Razak rally on Jan 6 in Putrajaya.

• He acknowledges the extensive efforts, including transportation arrangements and moral support, as a reflection of party unity and loyalty to their shared cause.

• Umno leader Mohd Puad Zarkashi questions why the Lim family, particularly Guan Eng and Kit Siang, seemed haunted by Najib’s influence, even while Najib remains imprisoned.

Former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak has expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support for the upcoming Solidarity 4 Najib Razak rally, set to take place on Jan 6 at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya.

His message addressing Umno divisions was conveyed through his son, Nazif Najib who highlighted the support of Umno leaders, members, and supporters.

“I would like to extend my deepest thanks to all Umno division chiefs, members, and supporters for the exceptional spirit and commitment in supporting the Solidarity 4 Najib Razak rally,” Nazif relayed on behalf of his father.

He noted that Najib had been informed of the extensive preparations made by supporters, including transportation arrangements such as buses and cars, and the unwavering moral support demonstrated by party members and allies.

“[Najib] is deeply moved and extends his profound gratitude to each and every one of you.

“This dedication reflects our unity as a party and our loyalty to the cause. God willing, with prayers and collective effort, we will see a successful outcome,” the message read.

The rally coincides with a hearing regarding an alleged royal addendum that could potentially allow Najib to serve the remainder of his prison term under house arrest.

The rally had raised eyebrows, especially after PAS urged its members to attend.

DAP chairperson Lim Guan Eng had cautioned that any joint programme between Umno and PAS - whether solidarity gatherings or demonstrations - risks undermining political stability and casting doubt on Umno’s position in the government.

However, some Umno leaders clarified that it had nothing to do with politics and that the party had never communicated with PAS about the event.

‘Lim family fear of Najib’s influence’

Meanwhile, Umno supreme council member Mohd Puad Zarkashi reiterated that both Umno and PAS independently planned their respective rallies, although the Islamist party’s support is welcomed.

Puad responded to a recent press conference held by Lim Kit Siang and his children, Lim Guan Eng and Lim Hui Ying, which accused Umno and PAS of collaborating on the rally. He questioned why the Lim family seemed so fearful of Najib.

“Despite Najib being in prison, his aura seems to haunt them, especially Guan Eng, who remains free. Kit Siang, who claimed to have retired, appeared beside his son at the press conference,” said Puad.

“It seems he believed he could retire peacefully once Najib was imprisoned. Now, Kit Siang realises he cannot rest easy - Najib’s influence remains alive, and the thought of his potential freedom poses a threat.”

Puad added that Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was correct in stating that Guan Eng’s time has passed.

He called on DAP’s new leadership to take charge of the party while Guan Eng addressed his corruption case involving the Penang undersea tunnel project.

As for Kit Siang, Puad remarked, “It’s time to truly retire.”

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