KUALA LUMPUR – Umno secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has issued a reminder to the party’s MPs that they are bound by its constitution that punishes those who join any political plot to change the prime minister.
His reminder comes amid speculation about the purported Langkah Dubai to topple the unity government, which Umno is part of, by enticing government MPs to switch sides.
Asyraf said Umno MPs would automatically have their membership terminated if they were to join any such move.
“Article 20.11 of the Umno constitution states membership is automatically revoked if a member who is elected as an MP goes against the party’s decision, including by joining any political move that Umno is not part of.
“This involves signing agreements to join alliances with opposing parties that are contrary to Umno’s position,” he said in a statement on Facebook today.
These changes to the Umno constitution were made at the party’s general assembly in January last year.
Asyraf said anti-hopping laws would also apply, resulting in the MP losing their seat, and a by-election held.
Additionally, Umno and Barisan Nasional MPs are also bound to the party and coalition by a RM100-million bond, which they will have to pay if they switch sides.
“These amendments were made in response to the political instability that burdened the people and nation after the general election in 2018,” Asyraf said.
Talk of Langkah Dubai had circulated on social media last month, and although it did not materialise, it is now the subject of a police investigation after a total of 145 police reports were lodged over the matter. – January 12, 2024