'I'm not a traitor' - Muhyiddin

In fact, the Pagoh Member of Parliament defended his actions of speaking up whenever something is wrong in UMNO , as a manifestation of his love for the party.

"We're dealing with a problem and I'm not willing (to be silent) because I love UMNO," he said when answering questions at a dialogue session titled ‘Berani Kerana Benar’, organized by Sinar Harian in Johor Baharu, on Saturday.

The program was broadcasted live on the Sinar.TV website.

The former Deputy Prime Minister said, he had never been afraid to face all possibilities, including the implications of his position within the party.

He admitted that although he still held the UMNO Deputy President's post, the dynamics of his role, especially at the management level within the party, is no longer the same.

"I did not chair the party's management meeting, which was held recently.

"I do not know what will happen in the future and it's as if the people's mandate, in choosing me as the party's deputy president, is not being respected," Muhyiddin said.

He also admitted to hearing rumours on a plan to prevent him from officiating the UMNO Delegates' meeting during the party's General Assembly meeting in December.

"Traditionally the party's deputy president will officiate the delegates' meeting," he said.

Muhyiddin also hoped that all UMNO members understood his actions and it should not be seen as a factor to impede the party's strength.