JOHOR BAHRU: A member of the Umno Supreme Council (MKT), Datuk Dr. Mohd Puad Zarkashi, hinted that he would make a major announcement on the nomination day for the Johor state election (PRN) on June 27, following dissatisfaction with the candidate list announced by the Johor Barisan Nasional (BN).
The former Speaker of the Johor State Legislative Assembly (DUN) said there were several aspects of the candidate list that he felt were not aligned with his hopes for party leadership renewal in the state.
According to him, the latest developments in Johor Umno are cause for concern, and he is ready to continue his political struggle despite facing various challenges.
"Today, Johor BN will announce the list of candidates contesting in the 2026 Johor state election.
"Looking at the candidate list, something is not right with Johor Umno.
"Therefore, I will make an important announcement on June 27.
"The latest developments in Johor Umno are worrying," he said in a statement on June 24.
Datuk Mohd Puad said he would not back down from fighting for the principles he believes in, even though he considers himself just an ordinary leader in the party.
"I will not look back even though I am just a small person," he said.
The statement came just days after he announced his decision not to defend the Rengit state seat in this election due to age.
He, now 69, believes it is time for the younger generation to be given the opportunity to lead and manage the state administration.
According to him, candidates aged 50 and below with qualifications, integrity, and commitment to the party's struggle need to be promoted to ensure the continuity of Johor's leadership in the future.
"I insist that trained and educated young people must be given the opportunity. But that was not heeded," he said.
Meanwhile, Johor Umno Youth chief, Mr. Noor Azleen Ambros, called on all party members to maintain loyalty and obedience to the party's struggle regardless of the position or post they hold.
He said the value of loyalty to the party should not change according to the current situation, but must continue to be upheld even if one no longer holds any position in the organization.
According to him, party members should appreciate the opportunities and trust given by the party by showing continuous commitment to the party's struggle and leadership.
"When the party elevates us with a position, we obey and are loyal to the party.
"But when we no longer hold any position, that loyalty and obedience should remain.
"Repay the trust and opportunities given by the party as best as possible, not with threats or incitement," he said.
Mr. Noor Azleen said every member must understand that the party belongs to everyone and not to any particular individual.
He also reminded the youth in the party to always observe and evaluate the actions of more experienced leaders as examples in understanding the true meaning of loyalty to the political struggle.
"Be a party person who is obedient and loyal. Show the younger generation in the party a true example of what loyalty and obedience to the party mean.
"Indeed, this party belongs to everyone," he said.
"Today, BN (Barisan Nasional) Johor will announce the list of candidates contesting in the PRN (State Election) Johor 2026. Looking at the candidate list, something is not right with Johor Umno. Therefore, I will make an important announcement on June 27. The latest developments in Johor Umno are worrying." — Member of the Umno Supreme Council (MKT), Datuk Dr. Mohd Puad Zarkashi.
