A CALL for former Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin, or better known as KJ, to rejoin UMNO was made a week ago by former Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, who said the two heavyweights should rejoin the party to strengthen it.
Meanwhile, UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on Dec 1, stated that former leaders like Hishammuddin and Khairy could be considered for rejoining the party if they show commitment similar to Tajuddin.
Tajuddin, who had his six-year membership suspension lifted, sent four appeal letters to return to UMNO. Zahid emphasised that if other former members, like Hishammuddin and Khairy, demonstrate similar commitment, the UMNO Supreme Council might consider their reintegration into the party.
However, Khairy outlined his conditions for rejoining UMNO, emphasising that he would not compromise his principles or idealism for a reformed, credible and relevant UMNO.
“If one day I want to return to UMNO, this is not directed at any particular leader. We must not forget that there must be efforts to restore UMNO’s image.
“I don’t want this to be a way for me to return to politics just to gain any position. My return to UMNO must come with a commitment from all involved—current leaders and myself.
“However, my idealism to see a transformed UMNO – one that is better, more relevant, fresher, and more credible – cannot be sacrificed if I were to return.
“If you can accept me, as Kurt Cobain said, ‘Come as you are, KJ,’ and I also accept the party Disciplinary Board’s decision. I think it’s something that can be discussed later,” he said during the Keluar Sekejap podcast.
While he expressed loyalty to the party despite his expulsion in January 2023, he clarified that his return must align with efforts to restore the party’s image. — Dec 7, 2024
Main photo credit: Berita Harian
