FINDING common ground to implement the manifestos of different component parties will be among the topics discussed in the unity government’s first secretariat meeting scheduled tonight, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. 

The Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman said it will be one of the ways to strengthen the unity government apart from political activities. 

“What is important is that we want to see the 148 parliamentarians from the coalition parties that form the unity government be united, especially for the next five years.

“MPs from various parties can continue to strengthen the existing government because since the 11th general election (GE11), no coalition or party has won a two-thirds majority,” the deputy prime minister was quoted as saying in news reports.

The secretariat meeting tonight at Menara Dato’ Onn would also see Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim setting foot in Umno’s headquarters since he was expelled by the party 25 years ago.

Together with leaders from Umno and BN, leaders from Pakatan Harapan, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Warisan are also expected to attend the meeting tonight.

In the last Umno general assembly, Zahid had said the secretariat would be based at Menara Dato’ Onn.

He also said Umno Youth chief Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki was heading the secretariat

On another matter, Zahid said there has yet to be any discussion with Pakatan Harapan on the possibility of sacked Umno members joining parties in the coalition.

“As of now, there has not been any discussions with me on this matter,” he said.

Yesterday, Anwar said he will discuss the matter with Umno leaders.

“We take note that some ex-Umno members have expressed their intention to join us. We will discuss it with Umno leaders,” he said at a press conference. – February 7, 2023.