Important to allow Umno to operate, Harapan MP tells gov't

The Pakatan Harapan government must allow Umno to continue to operate despite the alleged wrongdoings of some of its leaders, DAP lawmaker Lim Lip Eng said today.

Lim said in a statement that authorities should instead be urged to investigate the source of Umno’s recent funds, which the supposedly cash-strapped party is reported to have raised despite being dogged by allegations of financial impropriety.

He warned that any move to hamper Umno’s operations could be used by the latter against DAP and Chinese Malaysians.

"It is important for the Harapan government to let Umno continue to operate in the name of democracy, but rein in its dirty politics," he said.

"We are in an increasingly toxic political atmosphere, where fake news and racial provocations are disseminated through social media.

"Some Umno leaders will definitely accuse DAP and other Chinese NGOs of orchestrating the move to deregister Umno, even if the process is carried out professionally based on the rule of law by the Registrar of Societies."

Chance to 'rectify wrongdoings'

Lim added that the Harapan government should give the former ruling party a chance to rectify its alleged wrongdoings.

"At the same time, ROS should deal with Umno with greater discretion by guiding the party to amend its irregularities."

Lim also called on Harapan to focus on creating more jobs to stimulate economic growth and "win Umno members and their supporters over."

Improved living conditions, he said, would cause Umno members to "automatically leave the party."

Lim was referring to statements made by Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad following the Bersatu supreme council meeting last Friday.

Mahathir, the Bersatu chairperson, had questioned why Umno is still allowed to operate and even “become rich again” despite being dogged by allegations of financial wrongdoings.

However, Mahathir stressed that this was just the party’s "opinion," and that he was not issuing any directive for any specific action to be taken against his former party.