UMNO: Sedition Act not to tool to maintain power - Pak Lah

Former prime minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is reminding UMNO members that the Sedition Act is not a tool which could be used to maintain power.

In his latest blog entry on paklah.net, Abdullah stressed that if the people are not supportive of the party, no law can save it from losing power.

“While we welcome the retainment of the Sedition Act, I would like to remind that UMNO’s power and strength comes from the people’s support,” he said.

UMNO president, Datuk Seri Najib Razak in his keynote address today announced that the Sedition Act 1948 would be maintained as urged by the party’s wings during their assemblies yesterday.

Najib said the Act would be maintained with improvements to include two special provisions to further strengthen it.

Abdullah also said that Najib's address was interesting as it stressed on the importance of solidarity while not forgetting the party’s struggle.

“He (Najib) is deeply concerned with the anxiety, worries and the needs of the Malays generally, especially UMNO members.

“His concern was evident when he announced the retainment of the Sedition Act which was well received by UMNO members who were in and out of the hall in PWTC,” said Abdullah.

Abdullah also supported Najib’s address in relation to the Sedition Act which is seen as ensuring the country’s harmony while upholding its constitution.

“This ensures that the social contract sealed by our parents was fulfilled. It also ensures that Malaysia is not destroyed by irresponsible people. I support all this,” he said.

On Wednesday the three party wings, Wanita, Pemuda and Puteri UMNO had urged for the sedition Act to be maintained.

UMNO deputy president, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in his address during the simultaneous opening of the party wings on Tuesday had also stressed the need for the Act to be maintained.