Purge in Perak Umno after more than 50 sacked

IPOH: A significant number of Umno members in Perak – more than 50 – have been sacked for campaigning for the Opposition during the 15th General Election, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

Without giving a specific number, the Kota Tampan assemblyman said most of those who had been booted out had been referred to the party’s state disciplinary board.

“Seventeen members were sacked from the Larut division itself.

“I don’t deny it – (that’s) a lot,” he said to a question on whether action had been taken against those who had allegedly sabotaged the party’s election campaign during GE15 last November.

He was speaking to reporters after opening the state-level International Women’s Day celebration at Laman Seri Ridzuan here yesterday.

On Saturday, in his speech during the Lenggong division’s annual general meeting, Saarani said that internal sabotage was among the factors that saw Umno perform badly in GE15.

The party won only eight out of 37 state seats and two out of the 13 parliamentary seats it had contested.

Saarani said according to the party’s constitution, anyone found to be a proposer or seconder for a candidate from an opposing political party would automatically be kicked out.

“We have received reports that there are those who were not a candidate, proposer or a seconder but who went around campaigning for the Opposition, carrying their flags or attending their rallies,” he added.

Asked whether there were more than 50 members sacked, Saarani said: “Yes.”

He also said the supreme council had asked all divisions to send names to the board.

“We cannot simply take action. There is a process and (we) also need witnesses,” he said, adding that the party would announce any further sackings.

On another matter, Saarani said those contesting in the party polls at the division level must be prepared to lose.

“When you contest, there are only two outcomes – either you win or lose.

“Those who won, do not dominate (the division) and sideline those who had lost. They are still members.

“You are lucky to win as only one division chief is needed. Be thankful and strive to serve.

“To those who have lost, do not disappear, sulk, rebel or sabotage the party. Contest again in the next party polls,” said Saarani, who retained the Lenggong division chief post uncontested.