I will never leave Umno, says Najib

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak has pledged his loyalty to the party, even if he were to face a disagreement with party members in the future.
Speaking at the party's 70th anniversary today, Najib said it would never cross his mind that one day he would leave Umno as the party has made many contributions to him and his family.
"If there were to be a time when I am in disagreement with my successor one day, I will not leave the party as Umno has performed a great service to the Malays, Malaysians, my family and myself," he said.
"I will not betray the party for the rest of my life," he said to thousands of party members congregating at Putra World Trade Centre here to celebrate the party's platinum jubilee.
Despite not mentioning any names, Najib seemed to be making a reference to former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who left Umno following unhappiness with Najib.
Najib, who is also the Prime Minister, called party members to remain united as loyalty would ensure Umno's survival.
"Even if we have differences in opinion, we have to remain loyal to the party regardless of any situation," he said.
"There is no political party that is without differences of opinion and infighting.
"We must have discipline and it must be based on our love for the party," he added.
Najib also called party members not to forget the spirit of struggle among Malay associations which had led to the formation of Umno 70 years ago in Johor.
"Therefore, I want all of us to return to the spirit of Umno. If we can appreciate it, God willing Umno will remain in power for the next 70 years and beyond," he said.
Najib in his speech also dedicated an al-Fatihah to Deputy Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Noriah Kasnon and Kuala Kangsar MP Datuk Wan
Mohammad Khair-il Anuar Wan Ahmad, who were killed in a helicopter crash in Sarawak recently.
He noted that this year's anniversary celebration had to be toned down as a mark of respect to them.
He urged party members to close ranks and work towards ensuring Barisan Nasional's success in the upcoming two by-elections, triggered by the demise of Noriah and Wan Mohammad Khair-il.
"God willing, we will win," he said.