PUTRAJAYA is executing Umno’s agenda by allowing teachers and Community Development Department (Kemas) staff to be involved in politics with immediate effect, said P. Ramasamy today.

The Penang deputy chief minister II said the Malay-based party is attempting to boost its grassroots support by attracting teachers and Kemas staff into its fold, in time for the next general election (GE).

“Umno could not have risen to its present prominence without the pivotal role of teachers and other grassroots leaders. Umno has set its sights on the next GE and may be looking back on its traditional supporters.

“The announcement of allowing teachers and community leaders to engage in politics may have to do with its need to strengthen itself at the grassroots-level.”

Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who is Umno vice-president, yesterday announced that Education Ministry teachers and Kemas staff will be allowed to participate in politics.

He ordered the ministry to issue a circular on the matter, saying that it is a teacher’s democratic rights.

Currently, there is a circular prohibiting teachers from participating in politics, warning that action can be taken against them.

The previous Pakatan Harapan government had also imposed a restriction on Kemas staff’s participation in politics.

However, Ismail said teachers and community leaders are still subject to the rules of their respective departments.

Though he welcomed the announcement, Ramasamy noted that the participation can be guided by narrow political concerns.

He questioned whether teachers and community leaders can enrol and hold posts in political parties and join party polls.

“What about their participation in the national and state elections?

“If teachers and community leaders hold positions, either at the party or government level, will these contradict with their traditional roles?

“The government, like in so many decisions, seems to have made the announcement without the necessary planning.” – January 23, 2022.