IPOH: Perak Umno should have been more sensitive with its statement on the current political crisis, says state Perikatan Nasional secretary Datuk Zainol Fadzi Paharudin.

       Zainol Fadzi noted that the current state government was formed with the support of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) and PAS.

       Perak Umno information chief Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Harun had said on Wednesday (Aug 4) that all MPs from the party should follow the supreme council’s decision to rescind support for Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and the Perikatan government.

       In a statement on Thursday (Aug 5), Zainol Fadzi said: “This should not have happened as it will only make matters worse. The country is still fighting against the main enemy, which is the Covid-19 pandemic.

       “The focus should be fully on managing problems arising from the pandemic and helping those affected.

       “As leaders, we must prioritise the welfare of the people before political needs and wants.

       “Concerning the state Perikatan government, we are still intact and will follow the consideration and decision by the party leadership, which is to focus on providing our best services to the people."

       Mohd Zolkafly's remarks followed Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's announcement on Tuesday (Aug 3) after its special supreme council meeting that the party would stand with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and called on all its MPs to stop supporting the Perikatan government.

       Muhyiddin said in a special address on Wednesday he will not resign but would table a motion of confidence in the Dewan Rakyat in September.

       His proposal was approved by Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

       Zainol Fadzi, who is Sungai Manik assemblyman, said Perak Perikatan was saddened by and disappointed with what was happening in the country.

       “The revoking of support for Muhyiddin by the Umno MPs is a cause for concern among the people over the status of the government.

       “However, the statement by Muhyiddin has answered the questions that have been raised,” he said.

       “Perak Perikatan prays for the Prime Minister and government to be given strength and guidance to continue governing the country towards achieving herd immunity by year-end,” he added.