KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 24 – UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has asked anti-UMNO factions to stop demonising the party by drawing a wedge between the young and senior members as every age group in the party work closely as one.

“It is the combination of senior and young leaders that makes UMNO a strong party. This solid synergy has been going on for ages, with combined experience and creativity since it was founded on May 11, 1946.”

“UMNO’s seniors do not wished to be called ‘council of elders’ to look great. The important thing is to be honest in implementing the party agenda for the benefit of the people and the country. Newcomers do not use the title MUDA to prove they are young because they will grow old too,” he said.

Zahid who is also the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman said so in his Facebook posting, today.

He reiterated that UMNO does not need a la army management.

“Senior and youths in UMNO are fighting on similar philosophical basis of religion, race and country. With their charisma and ideas, they all come together to get the best formula. ”

Therefore, he said, UMNO’s policy does not reject a leader simply because of age. “It does not prevent young people from holding office if they have the support of the grassroots. We have Pemuda and Puteri. All have a big role to play.

“If anyone says that UMNO is ignoring the young, the statement is very wrong. UMNO always prioritizes them. We always refer to the past experience,” he added.

Zahid who is Member of Parliament for Bagan Datuk said he really appreciate what Pemuda and Puteri have done over the years.

“About 200 Pemuda members registered to fill up the 20 Exco positions after we lost GE14 due to slander and lies. The same goes for Puteri. So many volunteered to lead. They were so enthusiastic although they knew UMNO had nothing at that time.”