Umno’s decision to open its doors widely to former leaders may be a tactical step to bring back Larut MP Hamzah Zainudin, who was expelled from Bersatu last month.
Khairy sees targeted invitation
Former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the offer from party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi extends beyond those expelled or suspended and could reach across political divides.
“This opens the door for Hamzah to return to Umno and could be a tactical move by Zahid after hearing that Hamzah intends to form a new party,” he said in the latest episode of the Keluar Sekejap podcast.
He mentioned a recent discussion on Malay and Bumiputera issues involving Umno, PKR, PAS and Amanah held on Thursday.
Khairy described the move as part of Umno’s push to unite Malay-based parties and explore broader political collaboration.
Zahid announces unconditional welcome
Yesterday, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that Umno’s doors are open unconditionally to former members.
He said all past mistakes and differences will be forgiven in the spirit of Ramadan.
The Rumah Bangsa task force, chaired by party vice-president Khaled Nordin, will handle the re-entry process for those wishing to return.
Hamzah’s recent developments
The offer follows Hamzah’s expulsion from Bersatu on Feb 13 after a leadership clash with party president Muhyiddin Yassin.
Hamzah was among MPs who defected to Bersatu following Barisan Nasional’s loss of power in 2018.
He has since confirmed discussions about taking over Parti Keluarga Malaysia.
The party’s founder, Khairi Jaya, earlier described the takeover as 90 percent confirmed.
Shahril on Umno’s strategy
Former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan said accepting former leaders demonstrates the party’s tactical strength, though its long-term strategy remains unclear.
He noted that Umno is capitalising on divisions within rival parties, especially Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional.
Shahril avoided commenting on the controversy involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner Azam Baki.
“Umno stays silent, then seizes the chance to craft a new narrative, separating itself from the confusion,” he said.
“Perhaps this is how Umno can increase its seats, whether as part of the government or by leading it.”
