Zafrul's Umno exit: No rift, tension within party - president

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz’s decision to quit Umno has not disrupted or raised tension within the party, according to its president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He stated that most grassroots members view Zafrul's resignation as appropriate, given his lack of loyalty to Umno.

"I don't see any indication of ‘temperature rising' within Umno. It's better for him to leave if there is no loyalty to the party.

“Don't disturb him because he is performing haj, hopefully, peace will surround his mind," Zahid said.

The deputy prime minister said this during a press conference after chairing a pre-meeting with the Malaysian delegation in conjunction with his four-day working visit to the United Kingdom, which began today.

Last Friday, Zafrul announced his resignation from Umno to join PKR.

On the issue of a cabinet reshuffle, if Zafrul's ministerial position needs to be replaced, Zahid said discussions on the matter should be held internally within the coalition government.

"The absolute right to appoint ministers rests with the prime minister, and in this matter, it is better for us to hold internal discussions to avoid various interpretations," he added.

Earlier, Zahid was reported to have said that Umno wants its quota of seven ministers in the cabinet to be restored to the party following Zafrul's action.

- Bernama

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