KUALA LUMPUR: Those who rose to power via Umno but abandoned the party for its enemy are “political prostitutes” and must be dealt with, says Puteri Umno.
Its chief Datuk Zahida Zarik Khan (pic) said Umno’s defeat in the May 9 general election was a humbling experience, but it also showed the “real fighters” from the “fake fighters”.
She urged stern action to be taken against elected representatives who had become turncoats.
“We saw those who entered politics for personal gains, reaping as much as they possibly could.
“Sorry to say, but they are no more than political prostitutes with no dignity,” Zahida said during her speech at the Puteri Umno meeting during the Umno General Assembly 2018 here on Saturday (Sept 29).
Zahida said Barisan Nasional must act against all elected representatives who jumped ship.
“Puteri Umno is demanding that the president takes stern and drastic action, including possibly legal action, against any Umno elected representative who breaks away from the party, whether to be independent or to join another party,” she said.
Another demand made by Puteri Umno was for Sabah Umno to be given full autonomy, in line with the demands of the current political landscape, said Zahida.
The warlord culture in Umno must also be stamped out and the rejuvenation of the party be taken seriously, added Zahida.
“These are our suggestions for the president. The warlord culture in Umno must be tackled immediately as it could chip away at the party’s unity.
“The rejuvenation of the party also must be explained – whether it will see more young leaders helming the party or whether the party will use the latest technology” she said.
On Puteri Umno’s reform, she said a paradigm shift must be done to attract the young, as well as to be more inclusive to all women.
“Buttressing this fortress is our responsibility.
“Puteri will be the voice to fight for young women and the people, as well as to provide constructive criticism to the government.
The Puteri Umno wing meeting, which was attended by 970 delegates, was also joined by PAS’ young women’s wing, Ameerah, led by its chief Husna Hashim.
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