UMNO members must accept Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s return from leave as he has been given the mandate to lead the party for three years, said Najib Razak.

The former Umno president and prime minister said if members are still unhappy with Zahid’s decision, they could always vote him out in the next party polls.

“Zahid has returned as president. He was given the mandate to lead for three years. I accept his decision.

“If you don’t like this, you can remove him in the next party polls. But don’t make trouble in the party at this time. Don’t break up into camps and factions,” he told Setiawangsa division delegates when opening their meeting today.

On Sunday, Zahid announced his return to duties as party president after a six-month break.

During his leave, his deputy, Mohamad Hasan, assumed the role of acting president.

Zahid’s return has sparked fears of divisions in Umno.

Former vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein, however, said it is Zahid’s right to resume his duties as president.

“As per the party’s constitution, Zahid has the right to return to lead the party… It was his right to make the decision,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby on Monday.

He said Zahid’s decision should not affect the party’s “solid footing” established over the past year.

Najib today dismissed talk of factions in Umno, saying such rumours were concocted by social media users.

“There are no camps in Umno. Maybe one or two people who are unhappy posted about it on social media, but then it became a big issue.”

The Pekan MP said Umno must unite and focus on tackling issues affecting the public, such as the rising cost of living and unemployment.

“We must unite for the sake of the people. What do people want? They want food on the table, jobs and good healthcare.” – July 6, 2019.