KUALA LUMPUR: The time has come for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob to be appointed as the Barisan Nasional chairman, says Tan Sri Annuar Musa (pic).

       His statement comes after Ismail Sabri was named Umno’s choice for prime minister when Barisan joined the fray in the upcoming 15th General Election.

       The Communications and Multimedia Minister said as the candidate for prime minister, Ismail Sabri must be given as much space as possible to establish a new administration, which would be able to bring a “new order” of national politics that is fresher, cleaner, with integrity and able to restore the country.

       "I believe that it is time for him (Ismail Sabri) to be entrusted with the chairman position of Barisan Nasional as well as the Barisan election director for GE15," he said in a statement on Friday (April 15).

       Annuar, who is also Ketereh Umno chief, said the decision to propose Ismail Sabri as the prime minister candidate showed a consensus within Umno.

       "It shows maturity and wisdom, especially in making critical and strategic decisions to ensure Umno's battle forward.

       “I believe this decision is supported by all Umno members, Barisan component parties and allies,” he said.

       It was announced that Ismail Sabri would be Umno's choice for prime minister for GE15.

       Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said the unanimous decision was made by the Umno supreme council.

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