KUALA LUMPUR: Former Umno president, Datuk Seri Najib Razak said he has no intention of becoming the party’s de facto leader.
The former premier said his priority now is to clear his name from legal charges that he is facing.
“Since last week, many party leaders and members had urged me to lead Umno or become its de facto leader.
“I thank all, for the trust that you had placed, however, I have no intention to become the de facto leader,” he said in a Facebook posting, today.
The Pekan MP however said that he will continue to voice out issues close to the heart of the people and the country.
Najib adds that he is willing to help and provide the necessary support to the current Umno Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and the party’s leadership, if there is a need or request from them.
The former premier was commenting on Umno Supreme Council member, Datuk Lokman Noor Adam, earlier today suggested for Najib to be appointed as Umno de facto leader due to his vast experience.
On the move by Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to hand over his presidential duties to Mohamad, Najib said it was a noble act, giving importance to the party interest rather then personal interest.
“As a president who was elected by the party in a democratic manner, it was a personal sacrifice which he could not have arrived easily.
“However, I am also confident with Mohamad who will assume the duties of the party president.
He possess the vision, leadership, trust of leaders and party members to stabilise and rebuild Umno," he said.
