In a recent statement dated September 12, 2024, former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad delivered a scathing critique of UMNO (United Malays National Organization), highlighting a dramatic shift in its political stature. Once a dominant force in Malaysian politics, UMNO now finds itself in a precarious position within the Pakatan Harapan coalition, according to Mahathir’s commentary.
Mahathir’s statement reflects on the party’s historical significance, noting that UMNO was once the cornerstone of Barisan Nasional (BN) and boasted the largest number of elected representatives. During this period, UMNO’s influence was unparalleled, effectively shaping Malaysian politics and policy.
However, Mahathir asserts that UMNO’s fortunes have drastically changed. The party, which once wielded substantial power, is now portrayed as a minor player in the Pakatan Harapan coalition. This shift is attributed to UMNO’s current alignment with DAP (Democratic Action Party) and PKR, parties that Mahathir claims UMNO had previously rejected. He accuses UMNO of subordinating itself to these parties, suggesting that its leaders have compromised the party’s principles and autonomy.
Further criticizing the party, Mahathir points out that a significant portion—three-quarters—of UMNO’s members and supporters have distanced themselves from the party. This departure, he suggests, is a result of disillusionment with UMNO’s current trajectory and leadership. The remaining members, Mahathir contends, are merely following the directives of UMNO President Zahid Hamidi, including voting in favor of Anwar and DAP, despite UMNO’s historical opposition to the party.
Mahathir’s critique extends to UMNO’s current objectives, which he argues have shifted away from their traditional focus on advocating for the Malay race, the nation, and religion. Instead, he claims that UMNO’s primary goal has become the protection of Zahid Hamidi from legal consequences related to corruption and financial misconduct. This, he asserts, has become the sole focus of the party’s activities and agenda.
The former Prime Minister expresses disappointment over the transformation of UMNO, a party that once played a pivotal role in opposing the British Malayan Union, securing Malaysia’s independence, and contributing to its development into the so-called "Asian Tiger." Mahathir laments that UMNO, once a symbol of nationalist pride and political strength, has now been reduced to a subordinate role, aligning itself with PKR/DAP and serving the interests of Zahid Hamidi.
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