Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh today claimed that the party was driven to explore cooperation with PAS after Pakatan Harapan repeatedly made it choose between power and principles.
“We have been tested by PH too much. That’s why, when people ask why Umno moved towards cooperation with PAS, don’t ask Umno. Ask PH why they made Umno choose between power and principles,” Akmal said in his policy speech at the wing’s assembly at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.
‘Acted out of respect for king’s wishes’
He said that after the 15th general election, Umno-Barisan Nasional was prepared to remain in the opposition but agreed to form the government out of respect for the king’s wishes.
Akmal asked whether PH had shown the same respect for royal views, citing the controversy over pig farming in Selangor.
Yesterday, Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan said the party cannot rely on the likes of Perikatan Nasional, PAS or PH for its survival.
Mohamad, better known as Tok Mat, said the party must gain its strength using its own strategies.
