LONDON: Umno's demand for its quota of seven full ministers in the Cabinet must be discussed internally by the unity government, following Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz's exit from the party, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister stated that discussing the matter internally is also a sign of respect to the Prime Minister, who has the sole prerogative to appoint ministers or conduct a Cabinet reshuffle.
"It is the right of the Prime Minister to do so, thus, we should discuss the matter internally to avoid any misconception," he told reporters after chairing a pre-council meeting on his working visit to Britain on Monday (June 2).
Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid, who is Umno president, said there is no turmoil in Umno following Tengku Zafrul's departure from the party.
"There is no turmoil as most grassroots felt that it is better for him to go if he is not loyal to the party.
"We must not bother him as he is currently performing his haj. We hope he gets a new "hidayah" (guidance). Hopefully, the pilgrimage will give him peace," he said.
