Zahid takes subtle dig at Akmal, urges acceptance of criticism 'without shortcuts'

In a veiled jab against Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh, party president and Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reminded Umno Youth leaders to accept criticism without “taking shortcuts” in avoiding accountability.

According to New Straits Times, Zahid (above, right) emphasised that politicians who criticise others must also be ready to face criticism, highlighting that different views were an inherent part of politics.

“If we criticise others, we must be prepared to accept criticism. We should not accuse others of being undemocratic or unable to accept reality simply because they disagree with us.

“When people do not agree with us, we should not look for shortcuts,” he told reporters at an event in Putrajaya today.

The statement appeared to be in response to Akmal’s cryptic message about wanting to “step down” after Zahid rejected the former’s call for Umno to quit the government.

In a Facebook post, the Merlimau assemblyperson indicated that despite best efforts, an unspecified goal was not met.

“We have put in our best effort and delivered the best. Maybe the weaknesses came from me.

“Maybe it is time to ‘mengundur diri’ (step down). Thank you to all the voices who love this struggle. I believe if our intent is good for religion, race, and country, God willing, the time will come,” he said.

Handle disagreement with reason

Reminiscing about his days as Umno Youth chief, Zahid said both Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and he had previously led the party’s youth wing and understood young leaders’ need to uphold their ideals, even when those views were challenged.

He stressed that political struggle inevitably entails disagreement, and that leaders should respond with reasoned explanations rather than resorting to other means.

"This is a political struggle. Not everyone will agree with us. If there is disagreement, handle it with explanation, not with other actions.

"I am not referring to anyone specifically, but in general, any youth leader in any party must have ideals.

"Whether or not those ideals are accepted, they must continue to be championed. There are ways to engage and address many issues," the deputy prime minister said, noting that setbacks are part of leadership and political life.

"I myself have hit mountains, slipped on banana peels, and fallen. But falling does not mean we cannot rise again. We will rise again," he added.

Questioned whether he would accept Akmal’s resignation if offered, Zahid replied: “I have never thought about that.”

Youth chief vs sec-gen

Separately, tensions appear to be mounting between Akmal and Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.

After Zahid's reported remarks, Asyraf posted a statement on Facebook, urging party members to be prepared to receive criticism while also dishing it out.

"Be prepared to criticise, and be equally prepared to be criticised. One must have a big spirit and a resilient heart, while keeping the mind open and always being magnanimous," he said.

Akmal then posted a reply, seemingly in retort.

"Criticism and principles are two different matters. Previously, I have also been criticised, and I had no issues with it - instead, I even fought against it.

“However, my principles will not budge, not even by an inch. That is the difference,” he said.

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