Razaleigh said the council will discuss the matter and present its proposal to the Umno Supreme Council.

“Based on recent events… it is certain that the council of advisers will hold a meeting as it has an implication, and at the same time I must also be cautious,” he told reporters after attending a book launching event today.

Zahid is facing 45 charges related to criminal breach of trust, bribery and money-laundering.

Razaleigh said it would be best for the Umno president to either take leave or resign from his post as had been practised by previous Umno leaders who were charged in court.

Razaleigh, who is also the Gua Musang MP also commented on calls for a re-election of the president’s top post.

“I read newspaper articles and blogs where there have been calls for Ahmad Zahid to take leave, and some also want him to resign as president.

“However, these rumblings are not from grassroots members. Umno is still strong because it has 49 seats in Parliament,” he said.