I forgave those who have transgressed against the party - Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he has 'forgiven' those who had wanted to support Perikatan Nasional (PN) during the formation of the unity government.

Despite strong protests by party grassroots and members to get rid of the ' traitors' Zahid said he had no ill feelings.

However Zahid said that the 10 Barisan Nasional members of parliament will still be under close watch, by him and the party's disciplinary board.

I have forgiven for what has happened, but I, together with the disciplinary board will monitor if there is anyone who tries to make any moves.

"But I am confident that they will continue to be with Umno and BN in supporting the unity government today." he said.

Zahid went on to say that the action of these 10 MP's happened during an uncertain time and when emotions were at an all time high.

" The action of these 10 MP's happened during an uncertain time, when no party had been able to obtain a simple majority to form a government after the general elections.

"They have since revoked their support (for PN) and signed a statutory declaration. What is in the past is in the past," Zahid said.

Zahid who is also the Bagan Datuk MP said he had explained to the delegates what had happened in a closed briefing yesterday so that the delegates would be clear of what actually happened.

" I would like to move forward, it was tough lesson. We have now agreed ( Umno and BN supreme councils) that whatever we do now we will do as a team.

" What is important now is that all those 10 MP's are supportive of the unity government and I do not think they had meant to be vindictive," he elaborated.

According to sources Zahid had revealed the names and constituencies of the MP's that supported Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in the closed door meeting.

The constituencies mentioned included Sembrong, Simpang Renggam, Tampin, Jelebu, Jempol, Kuala Pilah, Ayer Hitam, Tanjung Piai, Tapah and Pensiangan.