Tengku Zafrul Told Not To Rush Decision On Quitting Umno Says Zahid

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Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (left) said he reminded investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz about his key roles in the party.
KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has advised Tengku Zafrul Aziz not to rush any decision on whether to leave the party.
Zahid confirmed that the investment, trade and industry minister met him last week and said he reminded Tengku Zafrul about his key roles in Umno, including as the Kota Raja division chief and an elected Supreme Council member.
“So, there is no need to rush. On this matter, he agreed with me, and as of today, he is still an Umno member.
“As the party president, my view is that, for now, he remains with Umno,” he told reporters during a breaking-fast event with Umno Supreme Council members here.
Zahid’s remarks come nearly two months after speculation arose that Tengku Zafrul was planning to join PKR in a bid to become the next Selangor menteri besar. However, Tengku Zafrul has denied discussing any state-level positions.
Speculation intensified when PKR president Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that talks were ongoing for Tengku Zafrul to join the party.
Subsequently, Tengku Zafrul said he would decide on his future with Umno after meeting Zahid.
6 names shortlisted for Ayer Kuning polls
On the upcoming Ayer Kuning by-election, Zahid said discussions with Perak Barisan Nasional leaders had been completed, and six names had been shortlisted.
“We will announce the candidate when we launch our election machinery for the state seat, likely about a week before nomination day,” he said.
Polling day for the Ayer Kuning by-election is set for April 26, with nomination day on April 12 and early voting on April 22.
The by-election is being held following the death of Umno assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, 58, from a heart attack after taking part in a football tournament in Penang on Feb 22. - FMT

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