UMNO DIVISIONAL MEETINGS: Zahid changes his mind

KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has had a change of mind and will now only go for the Umno vice-president's post at the upcoming party elections in March.

Zahid (picture), who prior to this had stated he wanted to go for the No. 2 post, said he had altered his decision in the interest of party unity and out of respect for Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who will take over the helm of the party.

"I appeal for support and nominations from the grassroots during the divisional delegates meetings for only the vice-president post.

"I also wish to state my support and undivided loyalty to Datuk Seri Najib, who has the confidence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to take over the leadership of Umno," he said in a brief statement issued here yesterday.

Zahid, who is also an Umno supreme council member, thanked all quarters for understanding the reality of the current political situation, which required sacrifices from members for the sake of party unity and strength. -- Bernama