Mustapa Mohamed quits Umno

KOTA BARU: Former Kelantan Umno liaison chairman Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed has quit the party.
In a statement issued today, Mustapa said his decision to quit Umno after more than four decades of being its member was made as the party's approach was no longer in line with the political principles he had been championing.
He said to be relevant in a dynamic national political scenario today, Umno, as the backbone of Barisan Nasional (BN), could not rely on the support of the Malays and bumiputra only.
"In principle, my political stand is for Umno to be a party that is inclusive, moderate and takes the middle path.
"Umno must continue to fight for the interests of the bumiputra and Islam, but should never sideline the interests of other races and religions. I believe this is the best way in a multi-racial country like Malaysia," he said.
Mustapa, who was also Umno Supreme Council member, said based on latest developments, effort to restore the trust deficit and Umno's image was becoming more difficult.
"There is no sign that the majority of the people of various races and religions will believe in the party's struggle again," he added.
Meanwhile, Umno secretary-general Tan Sri Annuar Musa, when contacted, said he had yet to be officially informed by Mustapa on the matter. — Bernama