Opposition strategy like that of Nazis’: Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has likened the Opposition to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler and his movement for its propaganda against the ruling government.
He said the Nazi movement used radio and film to carry out its creative propaganda, allowing it to influence the minds of more than 80 million Germans.
"The Opposition's plot in this country is almost similar. They shower the rakyat with 'candies' with their propaganda as if the country is on the brink of bankruptcy, and other allegations and false stories," he said in his speech at the opening of the Puteri, Pemuda and Wanita wings' assembly yesterday.
"We need to feel worried to see such changes happening to our society," he said, elaborating the changes had led to hate politics in the rakyat's mind.
Ahmad Zahid, who is Umno acting deputy president, rallied party members to stick to Umno's struggles through thick and thin, and to appreciate Umno's contribution in championing the Malays.
He also urged members to close ranks and remain firm in their support for party president Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.
"Allah has placed Datuk Seri Najib as our president. Thus, I urge all delegates to pledge your loyalty, not only through your lips but also in your heart," he said.
Ahmad Zahid also took a swipe at several former Umno leaders for turning their back on the party, stating that the positions that they used to hold were because of the party's grassroots support.
"It is unfortunate that a leader who used to preach about 'Melayu haprak' (useless Malays) has now left the Umno vessel. Now, who is actually the haprak? Who actually eats the 'dedak' (handout)?
"The person who used to lead us, left the party thrice. I have never left Umno despite being detained under the Internal Security Act. My allegiance is with Umno," he added, referring to former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Ahmad Zahid also reminded party members to be prepared to face the 14th general election, speculated to be held next year.
He called for party members to forget their past grievances and power struggles in the party and aim for victory in the upcoming general election.
"Focus on our strength to attract even more support and the rakyat's confidence in us ... We have no other choice but to win, win and keep winning for the interest of our religion, the Malays, the royal institution and Malaysians as a whole," he said.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid, who is deputy prime minister, launched his 101-page book Gendang Perang PRU: Strategi kukuhkan Parti (General Election War Drum: Strategies to strengthen the party).
The book outlines his vision and 10 issues the party had to tackle to win the next general election.