JOHOR BARU: Barisan Nasional stands to benefit from the possible return of suspended and expelled Umno leaders to the party fold, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president said figures such as Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy Jamaluddin bring valuable experience and credibility, noting that both are respected political leaders who have broad support across communities.
“They have vast experience at various levels of administration and have contributed to the nation. Their views and input have always been well received by the people, and this is something we look forward to,” said the Ayer Hitam MP at a Chinese New Year dinner jointly hosted by the Johor Baru, Pasir Gudang, Pulai and Iskandar Puteri MCA divisions on Saturday night.
Dr Wee added that the positive response from Hishammuddin and Khairy about potentially returning to Umno signals their readiness to resume their political struggle.
He said the presence of moderate and experienced leaders would give the rakyat greater confidence in Barisan’s direction.
“With leaders like them, the people can see that Barisan is moving towards greater unity and solidarity. Their presence will be an advantage to Barisan. With a common goal, it will bring a positive impact rather than adversity to the coalition,” Dr Wee said.
“I am confident the rakyat wants to see a more united Barisan, not only within each party, but also across all component parties.”
The Rumah Bangsa initiative mooted by Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi allows former members to return to the party without conditions.
In January 2023, Hishammuddin, former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan and former Tebrau Umno chief Maulizan Bujang were each suspended from the party for six years, while Khairy, a former Umno Youth chief, was sacked.
On March 12, Hishammuddin, who is Sembrong MP, said he would be ready to return and play an active role in Umno again if his suspension is lifted.
Khairy has also reportedly expressed his intention to return to the party.
