PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim has voiced his support for Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail’s decision to grant an exemption to Umno from Societies Act 1966 provisions.

Anwar said as prime minister and finance minister, he had made similar decisions regarding civil servants’ procurement processes.

For instance, in the past, some officers have been instructed to award contracts (without a bid).

“I overturned those decisions because I think it is better for us to use a tender process. This shows greater accountability,” he said.

Anwar also said as required by the law, and referring to the Registrar of Societies (ROS), Saifuddin has provided an explanation on the matter.

“The law required the ROS to refer to the minister and the law provided certain powers to the minister.

“The minister has explained it,” he said.

The ROS is under the purview of the Home Ministry.

Saifuddin earlier said the decision to grant exemption to Umno in accordance with section 70 of the Societies Act 1966 regarding the party’s elections is applicable.

Nevertheless, he said, if Umno members who brought the matter to the ROS were not satisfied with the decision, they could take it to court.

“The process is that they have to give the basis of their statement, prepare an affidavit and then name the defendant.”

On Saturday, ROS cleared Umno of any wrongdoing in connection with its motion for its president and deputy president to retain their posts uncontested.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the verdict. – March 9, 2023.