Umno's Idris Jusoh backs PM, chides Ahmad Zahid's leadership

PETALING JAYA: Umno's Besut MP Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh (pic) says he backs the Perikatan Nasional government led by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to help curb politicking in the midst of the worsening Covid-19 pandemic.

"We should focus our efforts on assisting the people. Increasing vaccinations and helping the economy recover.

"Therefore, for the benefit of the people and to minimise politicking, I have decided to support the present government under Muhyiddin, '' he said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 5).

Idris also took Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to task, questioning the Umno president's political stand.

He said he could not see Ahmad Zahid's leadership direction, claiming that the Bagan Datuk MP always changed his mind.

"Ahmad Zahid once said Umno MPs are free to support anyone in Parliament, but now he ordered us to retract support from the government. His decisions are always changing.

"Unfortunately, I can't see his 'game plan'. We are told to reject Muhyiddin, but what's next? Are we ready to be the Opposition and allow non-Malay leaders to manage Islamic affairs?

"Are we ready to support (PKR president) Anwar Ibrahim as we (know) about their close relationship?" he questioned.

Idris then brought up an audio recording that purportedly featured a conversation between Ahmad Zahid and Anwar.

"That is why we must be careful in making decisions for the future of the party," he added.

Ahmad Zahid had denied the authenticity of the audio clip.

Idris said the Perikatan government was not perfect, but was the best choice for Malaysians now.

"Umno's future will be brighter if we are together with the government led by Muhyiddin. This government is not perfect, but to avoid a bigger tragedy, it is the best option for now.

"I'm hoping for solidarity to be fostered among Umno members. I have always loved Umno; before, now and forever," he said.

In response to Idris, Terengganu Umno chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Said told reporters in an event at Kuala Terengganu Thursday that it is up to Idris on whether or not he wants to abide by Umno's stand in retracting support for Perikatan.

Ahmad also said Terengganu Umno hasn't ordered Idris to resign as the Felda chairman.

However, he claimed that three more Umno MPs will retract support from Muhyiddin soon.

"If Muhyiddin says he has 112 MPs, but the ones who gave the SD to the King are eight MPs.

"104 isn't the majority. I was also informed that three more MPs will hand in their SDs soon," he said.