PONTIAN - The actions of some former leaders and members of Umno to join opposition parties ahead of the state elections in six states don't 'shake' Umno's strength.
Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said those who were sacked and suspended from their membership can join any party, but those who are still members of the party are advised not to forget their roots.
He said there were claims that former Umno leaders who previously held ministerial and deputy ministerial posts had decided to join the opposition to continue their careers in politics.
"These leaders were appointed as ministers on the Barisan Nasional (BN) and Umno ticket, they have gained a good image during this tenure. But now they want to go against the party.
"Just because they weren't appointed, they want to leave Umno. I hope my friends who wish to leave the party don't act in such a way," he said.
The Deputy Finance Minister said this in a press conference after attending the Johor Writers Association Raya Celebration Ceremony at Rumah Citra Sri Benut, here, today.
It was reported that former Barisan Nasional (BN) secretary-general Tan Sri Annuar Musa is among over 10 former Umno leaders who have submitted application forms to join Pas.
Perikatan Nasional deputy secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin had also expressed interest in joining Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu).
He said the party will announce the names of political figures who recently joined PAS by the end of May.
Additionally, there were also claims about former National Unity Minister Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique joining Pas.