KUALA LUMPUR: Priority should be given to ensuring a stable government and fulfilling all of its agendas for the benefit of the rakyat, says Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.

       The Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia secretary-general said the issue of leaving a party was normal, as it has occurred since long ago.

       "Leaving a party happens not just at the ground level, but among the party leadership as well.

       "Many Umno leaders, including Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, have done so. It shows the main agenda is for the benefit of the rakyat, not the individual," he told reporters after attending Bukit Aman's Hari Raya Open House at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) on Wednesday (May 11).

       Hamzah was asked to comment on Umno supreme council member Datuk Seri Md Alwi Che Ahmad's view that those who defected from Umno should be welcomed back.

       "Anything that has to be done must be done with a pure intention. It will prevent issues cropping up, whether the action was for the benefit of the individual or for the greater good," Hamzah said.