The movement initiated yesterday was said to be a reaction to the “rebellion” of those who last week sent the ruling party into crisis mode by announcing a loss of confidence in Mukhriz.

“What we are really disappointed of is how the grassroot members were lied to over and over again. In fact, they (Kedah Umno division chiefs) never approached us to ask for our views or agreement over the call,” said the movement’s spokesperson, Badlishah Umno branch chief, Major Anwar Abd Hamid.

His division leader Tajul Urus Mat Zain, of Merbok Umno, is among the 14 who called for Mukhriz to be given the boot, said Anwar, who labelled the move as a betrayal to the members and voters.

“Have our division heads laid out exactly what were the faults of our Menteri Besar? Is the Menteri Besar implicated in a scandal or corruption?”

Anwar along with four other branch chiefs from Bandar Laguna, Taman Badlishah, Taman Pinang and Taman Bunga Raya will be going on a tour around Kedah to gain support from other grassroot leaders.

This is in the hope that with a stronger voice amongst the grassroots, all calls for Mukhriz’s removal would come to an end.

“We will start here and move around the state to invite other branch heads to fight against the irresponsible division leaders,” said Anwar at a press conference in Sungai Petani.

Bandar Laguna branch chief Zahran Abdullah said that a gathering to show support for Mukhriz will be held in his area on Friday (February 5).

Last week Kedah Umno deputy chairman Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah had demanded Mukhriz’s removal, claiming that the latter had failed in administrating the state government effectively.

Ahmad Bashah also accused Mukhriz of failing to unite Umno as well as plan properly for the 14th General Election.