Umno vice-presidency aspirants should consult the party president before making a decision, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.
Ahmad Zahid, who is Umno vice-president, said he believed Datuk Seri Najib Razak would have his own views on the candidates for the posts as it affected cooperation among them in determining the party direction.
“My opinion, for those wanting to contest the vice-presidency posts, to discuss the matter with the party president first. Get his views, advice.
“Certainly, the party president has his own opinion on the persons to be at the party’s number three post,” he told reporters after a briefing on border patrol at the Kelantan police contingent headquarters in Kota Baru.
Ahmad Zahid said this in response to rumours that Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir would contest the vice-presidency post at the Umno election, scheduled for next month.
“He (Mukhriz) is young and among the best candidates for the party leadership in future,” he added.
Describing Mukhriz as a capable leader, Ahmad Zahid said he should think of the best way to work with the incumbents, comprising senior members, if elected.
Besides the rumours on Mukhriz, two people have confirmed their intention to contest the Umno vice-presidency, namely Felda chairman Tan Sri Isa Samad and former Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam.
The incumbent Umno vice-presidents, besides Ahmad Zahid, who is Home Minister, are Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.
In a related development, Ahmad Zahid advised members to “measure their shirts based on their own body size” before making their decision to contest for party posts.
The registration forms for candidates to fill their nomination will be distributed today and the candidates are required to submit the forms, the latest by 5pm on Sept 21. – Bernama, September 14, 2013.
