Muhyiddin, Shafie pledge loyalty to Umno

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno deputy president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and vice-president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal have pledged their loyalty and commitment to the party, party president Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak said today, dismissing speculation of their sacking.
Thanking them for their support, he said the four-hour long Umno supreme council meeting went on well.
"I welcome Muhyiddin's participation in today's meeting as the deputy president.
"He has stated his loyalty to Umno and willingness to continue to strive to uphold its strength and ensure success of the party in the upcoming general election. I thank him for his commitment to the party," Najib told a press conference after chairing the meeting at the party headquarters here.
Similarly, he said Shafie has also pledged the same commitment and will work together with the party.
Earlier, around 100 supporters of Muhyiddin gathered in front of Menara Dato' Onn here as a show of solidarity towards the axed former deputy prime minister, as
Umno leaders convened for the party's supreme council meeting today.
Spokesman Khairun Nain from Umno Pagoh division said the gathering involved divisions from the southern state.
"Every divisions in Johor is sending their representatives as a show of support for Muhyiddin," he said.
Many had speculated that the party's No. 2 seat would be vacated after the supreme council meeting due to Muhyiddin's strong criticism towards the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.
Other leaders rumoured to be axed were party vice-president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal and Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir.
Asked on the possibility of Muhyiddin getting the axe after the meeting concluded, Khairun said Johor Umno would be frustrated with the decision.
"It would be a big loss if Umno comes out with a decision to drop him," he said.
The supporters were donned in black T-shirts carrying the words, "Keep calm and support TSMY".
Some were seen holding placards and shouting the name of Muhyiddin as a sign of support.