Dr Akmal Saleh has hinted that he may step down as Umno Youth chief after party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reaffirmed yesterday that Umno would remain loyal to the unity government until the next general election.
In a Facebook post, Akmal said he had “tried his very best and conveyed our message to the best of our ability” and added:
“Perhaps the shortcomings lie within myself. Perhaps the time has come for me to step down. I believe that if our intentions are sincere—for our religion, our people, and our homeland—God willing, the time will come.”
At a special Umno Youth convention on Saturday, Akmal had called for the party to withdraw support from the unity government and align with the opposition, citing repeated violations of “red lines” in 3R matters (race, religion, and royalty).
He highlighted public anger over incidents such as the “Allah” socks and upside-down flag, noting that those penalised were defending Islam and the Jalur Gemilang. He also cited discontent over alcohol being served at a government event.
Zahid said that during Monday’s political bureau meeting, Akmal presented the resolution passed at the convention, which was openly discussed by the party leadership. He reiterated that Umno would not abandon its coalition partners in the Madani government, dismissing past proposals for cooperation with PAS under Muafakat Nasional as never having materialised.
According to an unnamed Umno leader quoted by FMT, the party had set two conditions when Zahid allowed Akmal to organise the convention: there should be no discussion of withdrawing from the unity government, and no criticism of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The matters Akmal raised at the convention, such as leaving the government or realigning with PAS, were not discussed with Zahid beforehand.
Analysts have said that Akmal should accept that it is unlikely for Barisan Nasional or Umno to leave the unity government, noting that remaining in the coalition is essential for restoring the party’s strength and ensuring political stability.
