Change, as Umno understands it
By Adib Zalkapli (The Malaysian Insider)
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 – While both the top leaders of Umno seem ready to institute reforms in the party, the reality is that the party grassroots might prove to be the biggest stumbling block to meaningful change.
“Those days, an application for a taxi permit would require the endorsement of an Umno branch or division chief. If the branches and divisions are strong, then Umno will be strong again,” said Bukit Mertajam party chief Datuk Musa Sheikh Fadzir.
He also said the party made a mistake in trying to curtail money politics as it showed that Umno leaders are not grateful to the members who have sacrificed for the party.
“Without money, how can the delegates come to Kuala Lumpur to attend the assembly? Please look at the place they are staying, some of them are sharing a room with seven or eight people,” said Musa.
He claimed that the disciplinary board was also very selective and called for it to be dissolved.
“I agree with the proposal to amend the constitution but, before that, please dissolve the disciplinary board,” said Musa.
He also urged the party leadership to appoint divisional chiefs to government-linked companies.
“If we want to change, do it properly. Use our power while we still have it,” Musa said to loud cheers from the delegates.
Musa’s call was also echoed by a Malacca delegate, Datuk Hasnoor Husin, who also urged the government to ensure that only Umno loyalists be appointed to senior positions in public universities.
“Please make sure the faculty members are all Umno men, and the same goes for other civil servants,” said Hasnoor.
He cited the example of UiTM vice chancellor Datuk Seri Ibrahim Abu Shah who was a party loyalist.
