Umno Youth Chief Fires Back at Lim Guan Eng Over Rally Criticism
PETALING JAYA: Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh has lashed out at Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, saying he has no authority to criticise the party’s decision to organise a rally in solidarity with incarcerated former prime minister Najib Razak.
Rally Has Nothing to Do with Unity Government
Akmal stressed that the December 6 rally has "nothing to do with the unity government" and insisted it is only for the former Umno president. "Who are you to rebuke us? Who are you to order Umno around?" he said in a video uploaded on Facebook.
Akmal’s Warning to Lim
Akmal also warned that if Lim continues to criticise Umno, more of the party’s members would take part in the rally. "To my fellow members, he (Guan Eng) has started (speaking out), what are you waiting for?" he said.
Lim’s Criticism of Umno
Earlier today, Lim, the DAP chairman, hit out at Umno for joining hands with PAS to hold a rally in solidarity with Najib. He said the collaboration between the two parties would raise doubts about Umno’s sincerity in being a partner in the unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Umno’s Clarification
However, Umno Supreme Council member Puad Zarkashi had since clarified that his party had planned for a rally long before PAS announced it was holding one.
Rally Details
PAS’s rally will be held on the same day that the Court of Appeal will hear Najib’s application for leave to adduce fresh evidence in his appeal to serve the remainder of his jail term under house arrest, which he claims was issued in a supplementary order to the Pardons Board’s February 2 announcement. Over 200 busloads of Najib’s supporters are expected to attend the rally, comprising Umno and PAS members. Bersatu leaders are also expected to be in attendance.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Umno’s decision to hold a rally in solidarity with Najib has sparked a heated debate on the role of the party in the unity government. While some have questioned the party’s motives, others have defended the rally as a legitimate expression of support for the former prime minister.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the rally?
The rally is to show support for incarcerated former prime minister Najib Razak. - Who is organizing the rally?
Umno and PAS are jointly organizing the rally. - What is the date of the rally?
The rally will take place on December 6. - How many busloads of supporters are expected to attend?
Over 200 busloads of Najib’s supporters are expected to attend, comprising Umno and PAS members, as well as Bersatu leaders.