Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi (left) and Rafizi Ramli.
PETALING JAYA: Umno supreme council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi has remained resolute on his criticism against Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, despite being warned by a party leader to not pick on other parties or leaders within the unity government.
Puad asserted his right to criticise ministers who failed to perform in the interest of strengthening the government.
"Am I not entitled to express my opinion? What harm is there in offering advice to Rafizi? If his performance is exceptional, it will only strengthen the unity government," Puad said in a Facebook post on Saturday (June 3).
He further asserted that he would only be guilty of undermining his own cause if he shied away from voicing his criticism of the government and its leaders.
Yesterday, Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said Puad's comments on Rafizi's performance was akin to “shooting ourselves in the foot”.
Asyraf said it was Umno's obligation to uphold collective responsibility as a part of the unity government, noting that incessant attacks among government parties served no purpose.
In response to Puad's remarks, Rafizi acknowledged their alliance within the unity government and recognised that criticism is a part of his ministerial role.
However, he cautioned that constant attacks might antagonise Pakatan Harapan's hardcore supporters.
