Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor (centre) seen at the opening of the Federal Territories branches’ meeting today. – The Malaysian Insider pic, March 13, 2016. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is “crazy” for working with the opposition to remove Datuk Seri Najib Razak as prime minister, says Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor.
The Umno secretary-general today said the opposition especially DAP was known for causing disharmony in the country.
“When he was the party president he said he got the support from his people. He taught us to be respectful to the leaders. When he stepped down he said he is going to show his support to others. But, look, now he works with the opposition. This is crazy,” he told several Umno leaders in his speech after opening the Federal Territories branches’ meeting today.
Tengku Adnan said Dr Mahathir’s old foe, Lim Kit Siang, was willing to work withhim to achieve his own political goal.
“You think (Lim) Kit Siang likes to sit next to Dr Mahathir? He does not. He just wants to use him to achieve his political goal. This is why Umno is upset,” said Tengku Adnan.
“What Dr Mahathir should have done was to stay in Umno and discuss this,” said Tengku Adnan.
Dr Mahathir, the country’s longest-serving prime minister, supported by old political allies in Umno and Barisan Nasional, as well as foes, such as DAP’s Lim Kit Siang, signed a declaration last week demanding Najib to quit as prime minister and for institutional reforms to restore integrity to government bodies.
The group reportedly is targeting a million people to sign the declaration and will also join a gathering on March 27 as part of the Save Malaysia movement’s roadshow to press for Najib’s removal.
Tengku Adnan said it appeared that now was the season for lies and slander.
He said Umno branch leaders needed to keep the grassroots informed of the latest development in the party.
“I appeal to the Wanita Umno. We have to fight the negative perception against the party, against the government and the prime minister,” he said.
Tengku Adnan said come May 11, Umno would celebrate its 70 years of formation.
“This party has gone through a lot but is still standing strong. The party has never lost. Congratulations to members who uphold the party,” he said. – March 13, 2016.