SEVENTY-THREE out of 191 Umno division chiefs have won the party polls uncontested, said acting president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said the number indicates that Umno practises democracy.

“This is a manifestation of democracy done well. There are divisions that are happy with their leaders, and that’s why there is no change.

“The national-level posts have also been opened up to members to contest,” he said in a press conference today.

Zahid, however, did not provide details on the uncontested wins.

The Malaysian Insight understands that several Umno leaders were not challenged, including Zahid in Bagan Datuk,Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (Pasir Salak), Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz (Padang Rengas), Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir (Lumut) and Reezal Merican Naina Merican (Kepala Batas).

The former deputy prime minister added that the Umno elections this time showed the maturity of members.

Five states have organised meet-the-candidates sessions with the Umno grassroots.

Zahid said he will tour the country up till June 30, when elections for the party’s top posts will be held.

“Starting today, meet-the-candidates sessions will be held in states that we have not yet visited.

“The focus will be on those who contest at the national level.” – June 23, 2018.