FORMER Umno veterans who criticise Barisan Nasional are “ungrateful” to the party they once championed, said Wanita head Shahrizat Abdul Jalil.

Malaysiakini reported her as saying such “pensioners” need to back down and give space to today’s leaders to govern the country.

“Many of those who are pensioners and used to hold high positions should be grateful (to BN).

“Our time has passed. Give others a chance to govern the country. Why try to overthrow the government?

“Is the government of the day that bad? Is anyone starving to death?” she said during a speech at a Bukit Payong Umno event in Marang, Terengganu.

Shahrizat, while not naming anyone, said the Umno veterans have joined Pakatan Harapan.

Former Umno leaders that have openly endorsed PH ahead of the May 9 polls include former finance minister Daim Zainuddin and former international trade and industry minister Rafidah Aziz.

Daim has been traversing the country in support of PH, including Langkawi and Johor.

Umno veteran Rais Yatim, meanwhile, has criticised the government over the 1Malaysia Development Bhd scandal.

Shahrizat said it is sad to see PH chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad being used by DAP to campaign around the country.

“I do not know how Dr Mahathir can be like that. Wanita Umno, especially those who served under him, had always supported him.

“It is very frustrating to see him being used by DAP. We cannot accept this.” – May 3, 2018.