Hishammuddin: My victory is in the hands of delegates

An Umno vice-president has stressed that the triumph of Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil and Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar as Wanita UMNO and UMNO Youth chiefs, respectively, would not decide his.

Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said his win would be in the hands of 150,000 delegates, and whatever was highlighted in the blogs or forum about him were untrue.

"I wish to stress that my victory will not be because of the wings but because of you. It is based on issue, leadership, test and experience," he told reporters after a meeting with Penang UMNO leaders Monday.

He said the reports played up by the blogs or forums did not reflect the actual situation taking place; on the other hand, only the 150,000 delegates will decide the winners.

"This is because, at the 2008 UMNO election, eight people contested and they (bloggers) said I had no chance and would lose in eighth position. But I was number two," he said.

On his confidence in defending his post, Hishammuddin said he wanted the delegates to decide on him, based on truth and justice.

The defence minister and acting transport minister said UMNO members must pick a leadership line-up based on long-tested authority, experience and leadership.

"The elections in the party are very important. Our internal elections decide the supreme council, and the vice-presidential line-up must be in line with the requirements of those who have gone through the trials and tribulations of UMNO and national leaderships," he said.

He also reminded delegates who were picking the UMNO leadership line-up to put aside their emotions when they voted.

"I hope the delegates will vote for leaders who can cooperate with the top leadership to ensure the party remains relevant."