Azalina: Cabinet posts held under party mandate, not personal capacity
KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has emphasised that Cabinet positions are held under the mandate of the party, not in a personal capacity, following Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz's departure from the party.
"Although the Unity Council is chaired by the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim), each appointed minister represents their respective party in an official capacity," said information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said in a statement.
She added that Umno remains committed to serving in the government and will continue to uphold the people's trust.
"Accordingly, the Umno Legal Bureau has been tasked with reviewing the implications of the Anti-Party Hopping Act, including the status of a senator, to ensure that all subsequent actions are in line with the legal framework," she added.
Azalina also called on members and supporters to remain focused on national development and the party's struggle, despite changes in individual political affiliations.
Yesterday (May 31), Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said it was unethical for any party within the unity government to accept membership applications from former leaders or members of its allies.
The deputy prime minister, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman, said he was not surprised by Tengku Zafrul's announcement to quit Umno and join PKR, as they had discussed the matter during a parliamentary session three months ago.
Meanwhile, Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has urged party members and supporters to remain calm, focused, and united following Tengku Zafrul's decision to leave the party for PKR.
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