Annuar Musa: Umno's chances of winning polls on its own not guaranteed

PUTRAJAYA: Umno's chances of winning a general election on its own are not guaranteed even though it is the biggest party in the country, says Tan Sri Annuar Musa.

The Ketereh MP said Umno members represent only 20% of registered voters and the party will have to work hard to win the support of non-members.

“Do not assume that because we are Umno, we will automatically win. The remaining 80% are not our party members and they decide elections, ” said Annuar.

Speaking to the press a day after his sacking as Barisan Nasional secretary-general, Annuar expressed his “embarrassment” with the conduct of his own party within the Perikatan Nasional government.

“Our government is not even a year old and it has only tabled one national budget, but we are already quarrelling among ourselves. Are we prioritising the rakyat or personal agendas? I feel ashamed," said Annuar.

He added that the rakyat feels that politicians care more about positions instead of the welfare of the people.

“The people want to see the government revive the economy and to solve their problems. There are so many things we have not done," said Annuar.

"In meetings, we ignore the rakyat’s agenda or the plight of the Malays. Instead, we discuss in meetings about who should be sacked and such. If we keep doing this, we will lose the general elections," he added.

The Federal Territories Minister said Umno must realise the importance of maintaining its relationship with its political partners.

“For me, Umno cannot move solo. We must accept the reality that we must team up with our allies. Umno must try to unite all Malays. If they fail to do even this, do not expect to get a lot of support from others, ” said Annuar.