It is not in Umno’s DNA to parachute leaders into constituencies, said Kepala Batas Umno division information chief Mohd Naim Saleh.
PETALING JAYA: It is not in Umno’s DNA to parachute leaders into constituencies, said Kepala Batas Umno division information chief Mohd Naim Saleh, amid talk that former health minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar may return to Umno and contest a parliamentary seat.
“Umno is different from PAS.
In Umno, constituencies are usually represented by local leaders.
PAS can field candidates anywhere, but Umno members prefer their own,” Mohd Naim told theSun.
He said if Khairy, also known as KJ, were to be fielded in Kepala Batas, it could spark resistance from the grassroots.
“Umno members find it hard to accept outsiders contesting in their area.
If KJ is placed here, expect objections.”
On speculation that Khairy may rejoin Umno, Mohd Naim said many younger members support the idea, citing his experience as former Umno Youth chief and Cabinet minister under several prime ministers.
“He has served under several premiers, including the late Pak Lah (Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) and Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.
He’s not too old, not too young, and could help reform the party.”
He said any decision on candidates for Kepala Batas rests with the party leadership.
“As of now, we’ve received no directive.
Whatever happens, it’s up to the leadership.
But Kepala Batas isn’t short of capable leaders.
We have Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, who’s already a minister and on the Umno supreme council.”
Mohd Naim, who is also Penaga state assembly coordinator, was responding to local members who voiced mixed feelings about Khairy’s possible comeback, especially if he were to become BN’s Kepala Batas candidate in the next general election.
Speculation has been swirling for months that Khairy is eyeing a return to active politics.
On Thursday, Berita Harian reported that the former Rembau MP is expected to rejoin Umno before the Sabah state election at the end of next month.
Citing party sources, the Malay daily said Khairy, who currently hosts a radio show on Hot FM, has received the nod from Umno’s top leadership, particularly president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, to return to the party fold.
Khairy was expelled from Umno in January 2023 after openly criticising the party leadership during the 15th general election campaign.
