Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh has questioned whether party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi holds the sole right to determine Umno’s direction.
This follows comments by Zahid’s daughter, Nurulhidayah Ahmad Zahid, stating that no party wing can unilaterally chart the party’s course.
Akmal stressed that Umno members did not join politics to act as “yes-men”.
Debate Over Youth Wing’s Ultimatum
Akmal asked if expressing opinions is also the absolute right of the party president. He emphasised that members are not there just to follow instructions. His remarks came in response to Nurulhidayah’s warning that the youth wing’s ultimatum carries serious implications.
On December 28, Akmal announced that Umno Youth would hold a special convention on January 3. The event, titled “Umno’s direction: Stay or leave the unity government”, aims to discuss the party’s position.
This follows controversy sparked by DAP MP Yeo Bee Yin’s comments on former prime minister Najib Razak’s house arrest bid.
Nurulhidayah’s Caution
Nurulhidayah cautioned that such actions suggest Umno appears fractured and emotional. She highlighted the risks of narratives implying internal division. Her statement directly addressed the youth wing’s planned discussion.
On December 22, Yeo Bee Yin posted on Facebook celebrating the High Court’s dismissal of Najib’s house arrest application in the SRC International case.
As DAP publicity secretary, her remarks drew strong criticism from Umno leaders. Secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki suggested reviewing cooperation with parties that do not value Umno’s contributions.
