Zambry, Asyraf Wajdi have strong potential to helm Umno VP post
SHAH ALAM - Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir is a strong candidate for the post of Umno vice-president, says experts.
Universiti Putra Malaysia political analyst Datuk Prof Dr Jayum Anak Jawan said this was due to the veteran Umno leader's 'clean records'
“Zambry is a potential candidate with the experience of Menteri Besar, no controversies so far; and has a good track record in Perak as a leader who can deliver.
“I would see him as a leading candidate who would be well placed among the three winning vice presidents,” he said.
Meanwhile, for the other big three names in the Malay party; Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has lesser to display on their portfolios, despite being in Umno for so many years.
Umno's future leaders must also appeal to the wider Malay community and Malaysians - not only to the party, he added.
Meanwhile, Universiti Teknologi Mara political analyst Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam shared that the role of vice president is bigger than expected.
“The role holds a bigger responsibility now than before as the new leader is expected to have the capability and capacity of the narrative and trust upon Umno as a whole, namely among members and the public,” he said.
He also admitted that the current candidates for the post were intense as they were unexpected candidates.
Singapore Institute of International Affairs senior fellow Dr Oh Ei Sun said Asyraf would gain support from the Umno Youth.
“While Johari with his corporate background would likely have an advantage too. Azalina and Zambry would have to fight for the third spot,” said Dr Oh.
He further said the candidates need to work harder on the third level of leadership if they aim to get higher.
Following the mass purge in Umno recently, the oldest political party has set to hold its election on March 18.
