PETALING JAYA: Umno’s decision to nominate Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob as its sole candidate for prime minister reflected the openness of the leadership of party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and deputy Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, say Umno ministers and deputy ministers.

       In a joint statement, the group welcomed the party’s supreme council decision to nominate Ismail Sabri as the sole candidate for the 15th General Election.

       The ministers and deputy ministers also said the decision will ensure continuity and smooth recovery for the country.

       “Malaysia has begun to transition towards the endemic phase and various efforts are being done by the government under Ismail’s leadership.

       “The nomination from Umno will also guarantee the continuity and balance to the various planning stages as well as post Covid-19 national recovery agenda,” the statement said yesterday.

       It was signed among others by Rural and Development Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid; Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa and Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

       Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan on Thursday said Ismail Sabri would be Umno’s choice for prime minister for GE15.

       The unanimous decision was made by the Umno supreme council, he added.

       The supreme council also decided that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Putrajaya and Pakatan Harapan will not be extended after July 31.

       Meanwhile, Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said that the decision will also will stabilise Umno and Barisan Nasional.

       He said the decision also reflected an “extraordinary” level of solidarity and maturity that will put the party towards its goal to ensure it forms a stable government for the country’s prosperity.

       Bung, who is also a member of the Umno supreme council, said that the solidarity reflected on the attitude of Umno leaders who have prioritised the interests of the nation and the party above their own personal interests.

       He added Umno was different from Pakatan Harapan and Perikatan Nasional who are confused on their choice of prime minister after the 14th General Election because they have been prioritising personal interests over national interests.

       Bung said that the decision of the Umno supreme council would give ample space for the prime minister to compile and create an agenda to win the hearts and minds of the people to support Barisan Nasional.