REEZAL Merican Naina Merican is vying for one of the three Umno vice-president posts for the 2023-2026 term.

The former housing and local government minister and Supreme Council member submitted his nomination form today.

He said competition in a crowded field is a good thing.

“There are many possibilities but I believe in one thing – Umno needs more choices.

“I am offering my services as a candidate who can work round the clock since I’m no longer a part of the government.

“If the delegates are looking for a candidate who can look after the party 24/7, do consider Reezal Merican,” he told the media after filing his nomination today.

Reezal is the latest to join the fray after incumbent vice-president Mahdzir Khalid announced his decision to defend the post on Thursday.

The former Kedah menteri besar first won the seat in 2018.

The other two incumbents are Mohamed Khaled Nordin and former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Khaled confirmed his decision to defend his seat but Ismail has yet to make an announcement.

Others vying for the vice-president’s post include Supreme Council members Zambry Abdul Kadir, Azalina Othman Said and Johari Abdul Ghani, and Umno Youth chief Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.

Former Johor menteri besar Hasni Mohammad and Sabah Umno chief Bung Moktar Radin are also said to also have expressed interest to run for the position.

Umno is holding polls for its 191 divisions and 22,000 branches nationwide.

The positions of president and deputy president will not be contested in line with a resolution on the matter at the party’s recent general assembly. – February 25, 2023.