Najib steps down as Umno, BN chief

(Berita Daily) – Former prime minister Najib Razak today announced his resignation as Umno president and Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman with immediate effect.

He made this announcement to relinquish his positions that he had held since 2009 at a press conference after a meeting by Umno’s political bureau.

The bureau has agreed that Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will assume the role of party president, Najib said.

Speaking at a press conference held at Menara Dato’ Onn in PWTC here, Najib added that Hishammuddin Hussein will assume the role of Umno deputy president and BN deputy chairman.

Najib, under severe pressure following BN’s heavy defeat in GE14, addressed the media at about 3pm.

He also spoke about the defeat suffered by BN that had led to Pakatan Harapan to form the government.

The defeat sees an end to BN’s 61-year rule of the country.

“We accept the decision of the rakyat with an open heart,” Najib said.

“I would like to thank all Umno members and I guarantee that I will not leave the party and will continue to support Umno,” he added.

Najib said he was saddened but accepted the result of the 14th general election (GE14).

“Whoever wins the war of perception, they win the rakyat’s trust,” he said, further expressing his confidence that Umno will continue to shine and will be able to regain the rakyat’s trust.

His resignation comes at a time when many Umno elected reps are said to be crossing over to Pakatan.

Najib and wife Rosmah Mansor were this morning barred by the Immigration Department from leaving the country.

He had originally planned to spend two days in Indonesia with his family members but had to cancel that plan following the travel ban.

There was also a massive anger among the rakyat when they heard about Najib and wife flying out of the country via a private jet from Subang this morning. Hundreds had gathered at the airport to stop him from leaving.