THE sackings and suspensions of Umno leaders recently were carried out lawfully based on the scrutiny done by those responsible in the party, Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah said.

The Gua Musang Umno division chief said every party has its own set of disciplinary rules to safeguard such a political organisation’s progress.

“I believe this matter was carefully examined by the responsible parties, including the disciplinary committee,” he said, as reported by New Straits Times.

“Every party has discipline. A person who does not follow the procedure and way of working (within the) organisational structure will be subject to discipline to ensure that the party runs well.

“What’s more, in the current situation, efforts are being undertaken to stabilise the political situation.”

The Kelantan prince backed the move made by Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, saying it was appropriate because it was the responsibility of a leader to monitor the progress of the party and its leaders.

“The party leader has responsibility for overseeing the party’s journey and the behaviour of its leaders, whether they are fulfilling their normal duties or have an interest in challenging certain positions, even at the highest level,” he said.

“So if there is an action like the one announced, we should not be surprised.

“If you are not satisfied, you can appeal. This is normal in political parties.”

On Friday night, Umno sacked Khairy Jamaluddin and Noh Omar, both veteran leaders, for allegedly working against the interests of the party.  

At the same time, Sembrong MP Hishammuddin Hussein and deputy Umno Youth chief Shahril Sufian Hamdan were suspended for six years. 

Also suspended were former Jempol MP Mohd Salim Shariff and former Tiram assemblyman Maulizan Bujang. 

Forty-two other party members were also expelled – nine from the Putrajaya division, five from the Pasir Gudang division, two from the Tanjung Karang division and 26 from Pahang. – January 29, 2023.