Second-generation Umno leaders Mukhriz Mahathir and Hishammuddin Hussein were the first to qualify for election as Youth chief and vice president respectively, reinforcing the view that the party was looking to its past for direction to cope with the country’s rapidly changing society.

hishammuddin mukhriz 210508 The 44-year old Mukhriz (right) is the youngest son of the country’s fourth prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, while 47-year old Hishamuddin (left) is the son of third premier Hussein Onn.

Both grew up mixing in the same circles that included Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, whose father was the second prime minister.

“As Najib assumes power, it is not unexpected that he will take along Mukhriz and Hishammuddin,” said a party watcher. “It is like an old boys’ club and you can be sure the second generation will continue to perpetuate this tradition. Their sons and grandsons will also take turns to rule the country in the future.”

khairy jamaluddin Mukhriz whizzed past nearest rival, Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin whose chances took a blow after his father-in-law Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi decided to step down by next March.

Mukhriz pulled 40 nominations, while Khairy got 19.

Voices from the past or winds of change?

Foreign Minister Datuk Rais Yatim said he was surprised at the ease at which Mukhriz won over the divisions.

"This reflects the view that young Umno members want change and he is seen as a champion," he told reporters after opening the Jelebu Umno divisional meeting.

Umno divisions will continue to meet for another three weeks until Nov 9, and Khairy is expected to secure enough nominations to join Mukhriz in a straight fight for the Youth chief post in party election slated for next March.

Meanwhile, Hishammuddin thundered past the finishing post with 23 nominations, nearly double that of nearest rival, former Youth chief Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who obtained 12. Sabah Umno deputy chief Shafie Apdal was a close third.

To qualify to stand for election as Umno Youth chief post, a candidate needs to win at least 38 nominations, while a vice president aspirant would need a minimum of 19 nominations.