Collaboration acceptable but not at Umno's expense - Umno Veterans
It is crucial to safeguard the future of this party, which is rich in history and struggle.
KUALA LUMPUR – Umno leadership must ensure that the party does not suffer losses in negotiations to form alliances with any parties ahead of the 16th General Election (GE16).
Umno Veterans chairman Datuk Othman Desa said that this was crucial to secure the future of the party, which carried a rich history and legacy.
“Umno veterans, in principle, have no issues with the top party leadership's decision, which has hinted that Umno may not go solo in the upcoming general election, or in simpler terms, may collaborate with other parties.
“This is because we are aware of the dynamic changes in today's political landscape, which is different from the past. The reality is that no political party can govern alone and thus needs allies.
“Therefore, in this matter, we, as veterans, support whatever decision the top leadership makes. However, it must be noted that in any negotiations, Umno must not be disadvantaged, especially in seat distribution.
“This is crucial to ensure that Umno is not seen as merely following others' decisions, which could ultimately hinder the party's efforts to rise again,” he told Sinar during the 2024 Umno General Assembly at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) on Saturday.
He was responding to Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s statement that the party would not go solo in the upcoming GE16to avoid overlapping seats with other parties in the unity government.
According to Zahid, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, as one of the parties in the government, cooperation between parties should be carried out while respecting each other's traditional seats.
Othman added that the party leadership must also guarantee that Umno's original principles and struggles would not be compromised by such collaborations.
Meanwhile, he urged that veterans' views and advice be considered before the party makes any final decisions.
“Receiving more advice is better than relying solely on decisions made within a particular alliance. Therefore, we hope the veterans' voices will also be taken into account for the benefit of all,” he said.
