Zahid Respects Puad Zarkashi’s Exit from UMNO, Says BN Focused on Winning All 56 Johor Seats
KUALA LUMPUR: UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the party respects former Supreme Council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi’s decision to leave UMNO ahead of the Johor state election, stressing that every individual has the right to determine their own political direction.
Speaking after officiating the 2026 International Karate Open Championship at Stadium Titiwangsa, Ahmad Zahid said the party would not pursue any disciplinary action against Mohd Puad because he had already chosen to sever his ties with UMNO.
He said Barisan Nasional’s priority is no longer centred on those who have left the party, but on ensuring that its election machinery remains united and fully committed to securing victory in all 56 state constituencies that will be contested in the Johor state election on July 11.
“We respect the decision of any leader who chooses a different political path. That is their personal right. At the same time, we sincerely appreciate the loyalty shown by both long-serving and new leaders who continue to stand with UMNO and support the leadership of Barisan Nasional in Johor.
“Our main priority now is to mobilise the entire party machinery and campaign effectively to ensure all 56 BN candidates receive the strongest possible support from voters,” he said.
Responding to Mohd Puad’s allegation that UMNO Johor had been influenced by external parties in several political decisions, Ahmad Zahid declined to prolong the issue, saying there was no necessity to respond further since the former Johor State Legislative Assembly Speaker had already resigned from the party.
He emphasised that UMNO acknowledges Mohd Puad’s past contributions and remains appreciative of the role he played during his years in the party.
“He has decided to leave UMNO, so there is no issue of disciplinary action. We respect his decision and thank him for everything he has contributed over the years. I also wish Dr Mohd Puad every success in whatever path he chooses moving forward,” he added.
Earlier, Mohd Puad announced his resignation from UMNO, claiming that the party was no longer fully independent in making several political decisions and alleging that UMNO Johor had become influenced by outside parties in determining its direction.
In a related development, former Layang-Layang assemblyman Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim also announced his departure from UMNO before joining Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), adding to the list of leaders who have left the party ahead of the Johor polls.
Despite these developments, Ahmad Zahid maintained that Barisan Nasional remains fully focused on its election preparations, expressing confidence that the coalition’s candidates will continue presenting policies centred on political stability, development and the welfare of Johor voters throughout the campaign period.
