Khairy's UMNO Return Hinges on Formal Application, Says Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, March 15 – The appearance of former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin at the UMNO Youth General Assembly today has reignited speculatio...

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Khairy's UMNO Return Hinges on Formal Application, Says Ahmad Zahid
KUALA LUMPUR, March 15 – The appearance of former UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin at the UMNO Youth General Assembly today has reignited speculation about his potential return to the party. Addressing whether the UMNO Supreme Council would discuss Khairy's re-entry tonight, UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that any decision would depend on a formal application submitted by Khairy himself. Ahmad Zahid clarified that Khairy attended the assembly in his capacity as a "former UMNO Youth chief," having been invited by current UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr. Akmal Saleh. "Datuk Akmal invited Khairy to attend the UMNO Youth General Assembly as a former UMNO Youth chief. Coincidentally, I met Khairy last night at a memorial prayer ceremony for the late former Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak, where he made a request to attend, and I agreed," Ahmad Zahid explained during a media interview after officiating the UMNO Overseas Club Student Representative Special Meeting and the launch of the club's new logo. This development comes amid ongoing political realignments in Malaysia, with Khairy's presence at the assembly sparking widespread discussion about his future role within UMNO. Khairy, a prominent figure in Malaysian politics, was expelled from UMNO in 2023 following internal party disputes, and his potential return could signal a significant shift in the party's dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. Ahmad Zahid emphasized that any move to reintegrate Khairy into UMNO would require due process. "The matter of his return is not something to be taken lightly. It must follow proper procedures, starting with an application from him. The Supreme Council will then review it based on party regulations and the current political landscape," he added, underscoring the need for formal channels in such decisions. Political analysts suggest that Khairy's return could bolster UMNO's appeal, particularly among younger voters, given his previous leadership in UMNO Youth and his active engagement on social media. However, it may also face resistance from factions within the party opposed to his past criticisms of UMNO's leadership. In response to queries about the timing of a potential application, Ahmad Zahid did not provide specifics but noted that the party remains open to considering requests from former members who demonstrate commitment to UMNO's principles. "UMNO has always valued loyalty and service. If former members wish to contribute again, we will evaluate their intentions and alignment with our goals," he stated. The UMNO Youth General Assembly, held annually, serves as a platform for discussing youth-related policies and party strategies. Khairy's attendance, albeit in a non-voting capacity, has drawn attention to the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate UMNO's image and outreach. As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Khairy's next steps and whether he formally seeks readmission to UMNO. Such a move could influence not only UMNO's internal cohesion but also its positioning in the broader Malaysian political arena, where coalition dynamics and voter sentiment are increasingly fluid. In conclusion, while Khairy's presence has fueled speculation, Ahmad Zahid's remarks highlight that any return to UMNO hinges on a structured application process. This cautious approach reflects the party's aim to balance tradition with renewal, as it navigates challenges and opportunities in the coming months.

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