UMNO president  Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic) has dismissed the talk of splits within Sabah Umno amid growing political differences between state chief Bung Moktar Radin and his deputy Abdul Rahman Dahlan.“

There is no split,” the Deputy Prime Minister told reporters after opening the Sepanggar Umno division general meeting here yesterday, when asked about Bung Moktar’s push for Umno not to work with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) led by Chief Minister Hajiji Noor.

Meanwhile, Abdul Rahman is seen working to enhance relations with GRS for the next state elections.

Hajiji made a surprise attendance at the annual general meeting, which was led by Abdul Rahman.

Ahmad Zahid said Bung Moktar could not attend the event as he had another function earlier.

“I take the soft approach. My principle is that we have to be friends with all parties. (And) we will make our decision (on partners) when the time comes,” he added.

Sabah Umno led by Bung Moktar had pulled out of the GRS state coalition government in Jan 2023. Hajiji managed to survive the coup with Sabah Pakatan and Sabah Umno assemblymen throwing their support for him.