KUALA LUMPUR: Umno supreme council member Isham Jalil (pic) believes that former Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Razak has the potential to “save” the party if he is released from prison. He asserts that Najib is still well-liked among the party’s grassroots and could help revive the diminishing support for Umno following the 15th General Election (GE15).
Isham points out that during the recent six-state polls, Umno lost the support of nearly 80% of its grassroots. He emphasizes the importance of retaining the support of the grassroots in a political party, mentioning the 16th General Election as a concern if they are all lost. Isham believes that only Najib can bring back their support.
In addition, Isham urges Umno’s top leadership not to fear being overshadowed by Najib upon his release. He assures them that with Najib’s return, the party can be restored and the economy can recover.
Meanwhile, Senator Datuk Seri Ti Lian Ker argues that more support should be provided to Najib in his quest for a Royal Pardon. He states that those who sympathize with Najib are rational individuals who have not radicalized their supporters. Ti Lian Ker believes that this lack of political momentum is hindering Najib’s pardon efforts.
Currently, Najib is serving a 12-year prison sentence after his conviction and sentence in the SRC International Sdn Bhd graft case was upheld by the Federal Court. Last year, on Sept 2, the former prime minister applied for a Royal Pardon on the grounds of unfair treatment.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
