In an effort to stem the resignations of more Umno members, Mohamad said there was an urgent need to convey the reform agenda and the direction the party was taking to everyone.

“This will be my responsibility, together with the Supreme Council and the party president to execute as soon as possible.”

Umno Supreme Council member Mustapa Mohamed, in quitting the party yesterday, said he did not see any convincing effort to rejuvenate the party and that its current direction was no longer in line with his political principles. Today, Sabah Umno leader Anifah Aman also quit the party.

Mohamad said he regretted the decision of Mustapa and Anifah to quit the party, adding: “They are well-respected and competent leaders who have proven their capabilities in leadership and service to the people. Their services and contributions to Umno and the country are undeniable, which we are truly thankful and appreciative of.

“However, they have now chosen different directions and have decided to leave Umno and its course. I am certain that this is not an easy decision for everyone.”

He said the Umno leadership, especially the Supreme Council, was very concerned with this development.

“I also acknowledge that over the past four months, the process of forming a clear direction for Umno and reforming the party post GE14 has not been as fast, progressive and radical as desired by all parties. This situation creates a sense of uneasiness and uncertainty which affects all parties.

“Hence, I would like to emphasise that this issue will be given serious attention and emphasis in order to ensure that Umno does not appear to be a party without direction or a party which has deviated from the foundation of its course.”