UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has been the subject of trolling by Madani government backers who wonder if the party has any gut to mete out disciplinary action which includes expulsion against him for openly declaring that he would attend tomorrow’s (Jan 6) “Solidarity with Najib” rally in a personal capacity.
This is despite UMNO having called off its participation from the rally in respect of the Yang di-Pertaub Agong’s (YDPA) decree to use the established legal channels to submit an appeal for the pardon of incarcerated former premier Datuk Seri Najib Razak “who has rendered many services to the people and the country”.
Often dubbed a “thorn in the flesh” over his provocative attitude towards fellow Madani government allies, his alignment with the opposition is again apparent as PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari has applauded the Merlimau state assemblyman “for confirming to meet on Jan 6 (tomorrow)”.
“Your Jan 6 presence is in no way disrespectful to to the YDPA’s edict because there is no mention of any obstruction to the proposed rally in the YDPA’s edict,” Fadhli penned in his response to Akmal who wanted the Pasir Mas MP to tell him face-to-face who he (Fadhli) meant by “the monitor lizard”.
“Such is the bravery of the UMNO Youth chief. Don’t be like some of your leaders who immediately retreat when provoked by DAP. I shall reveal to you who is the ‘monitor lizard’ when we meet.”
Editor’s note: Amanah Youth has lodged a police report against Fadhli for insulting the royal institution following his metaphor “Disangka jantan berkokok nyaring, rupanya ayam betina bertelur sebiji. Disergah biawak, digadai reban” which could be interpreted as referring to the YDPA.
Whatever the case is, Akmal’s immaturity as a first-term politician coupled with his oft-perceived opposition-slant stance is obvious in that he still “can’t differentiate what is right or wrong” as one netizen pointed out.
A few others questioned why the Melaka State EXCO for Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security did not make any fuss that “Najib was thrown into prison during the 33-month Perikatan Nasional (PN) administration”.
One supposedly fan of Akmal was grilled by fellow netizens for praising his leadership qualities.
As a few netizens contended, could it be surmised that it would be a matter of time before the axe fall on the Russia-trained medical doctor if he continues to defy the stance of his party? Or would UMNO ever have the political courage to do so given Akmal’s deep inkling with the party’s grassroots, especially the younger generation? – Jan 5, 2025