KLUANG: Johor Umno will present to the party’s top leadership a resolution proposing that Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein’s (pic) suspension be lifted, says Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The state Umno chief said the resolution came from the Sembrong division, of which Hishammuddin is its former head.
“I’ve been informed that a motion has been tabled, urging the leadership to consider reinstating him (Hishammuddin). As state Umno chairman, I will bring this resolution to the highest level,” he said when opening the Sembrong Umno delegates meeting.
He acknowledged Hishammuddin’s significant contributions to the party, saying the former minister had guided him when he first entered politics.
The motion reflected the grassroots’ appreciation for his leadership, he added.
Onn Hafiz and Hishammuddin are related; the Johor Mentri Besar is Hishammuddin’s nephew.
Sembrong Umno chief Datuk Abdul Ghani Abdul Rashid said this is the second consecutive year the motion had been tabled, in line with the wishes of the majority of delegates who want Hishammuddin to return to active party service.
“We brought up this motion last year as well, calling for the six-year suspension to be revoked. The members here have made it clear that they want the suspension lifted unconditionally,” he said, Bernama reported.
He added that Hishammuddin’s extensive experience in government and Umno is crucial to strengthening the party.
Umno had previously carried out an internal “cleansing process” after the 15th General Election, which saw several of its leaders suspended or expelled.
Hishammuddin was suspended for six years starting Jan 27, 2023.
