KOTA BARU: Veteran Umno politician Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah has quashed speculation by certain quarters that he would join forces with the opposition in a quest to form a unity-based Federal Government.
Tengku Razaleigh is adamant on offering himself as a candidate for the Umno presidency.
“I already have a party; why should I join another? Let me make this clear. I am offering myself as I know I am capable of delivering the right type of leadership for the country. I am also contesting on my own merit and do not have a running mate.”
He was responding to news of him meeting informally with opposition leaders like Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Lim Kit Siang and Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang after they sought appointments with him.
“I regard everyone as an old friend and I meet them from time to time. I was the one who brought Anwar into Umno. I know his family well. The funny thing here is the opposition leaders asked to see me but none of the government leaders are willing,” he said.
There are many things which need to be done for the country, the Kelantan prince told a press conference at his home here on Friday.
The British-trained economist who established institutions such as Petronas and Bank Bumiputra, said he has clarity of conscience in wanting to serve Umno and the nation but to do so depends largely on the Umno division delegates pledging their support.
He also recorded his appreciation to former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for endorsing him for the Umno president post. On a proposed unity-based Government and a single Barisan Nasional entity party with direct membership from present coalition members, he said it was derived from informal discussions with Pakatan Rakyat leaders and are just ideas which also need to be discussed with Umno.
On the division delegates meeting which began Friday, he called on those with voting rights to select clean and proven leaders who have the fortitude to serve and brighten the future of their grandchildren.
“Do not allow yourself to be bought over through corruption.” Asked if he was offered the post of prime minister as an inducement to join forces with Pakatan, Tengku Razaleigh said no.
IAN MCINTYRE
star online
10/10/08
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