Zahid advises Tengku Zafrul not to rush decision on quitting Umno

(FMT) – The Umno president says the investment, trade and industry minister met him last week and remains a party member for now.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has advised Tengku Zafrul Aziz not to rush any decision on whether to leave the party.

Zahid confirmed that the investment, trade and industry minister met him last week and said he reminded Tengku Zafrul about his key roles in Umno, including as the Kota Raja division chief and an elected Supreme Council member.

“So, there is no need to rush. And he agreed with me,” he told reporters during a breaking-fast event with Umno Supreme Council members here.

“As the party president, my view is that, for now, he remains with Umno.”

Zahid’s remarks come nearly two months after speculation arose that Tengku Zafrul was planning to join PKR in a bid to become the next Selangor menteri besar. However, Tengku Zafrul has denied discussing any state-level positions.

Speculation intensified when PKR president Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that talks were ongoing for Tengku Zafrul to join the party.

Subsequently, Tengku Zafrul said he would decide on his future with Umno after meeting Zahid.

6 names shortlisted for Ayer Kuning polls

On the upcoming Ayer Kuning by-election, Zahid said discussions with Perak Barisan Nasional leaders had been completed, and six names had been shortlisted.

“We will announce the candidate when we launch our election machinery for the state seat, likely about a week before nomination day,” he said.

Polling day for the Ayer Kuning by-election is set for April 26, with nomination day on April 12 and early voting on April 22.

The by-election is being held following the death of Umno assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, 58, from a heart attack after taking part in a football tournament in Penang on Feb 22.

Source : FreeMalaysiaToday