Kuala Lumpur: UMNO is seeking to retain its full allocation of seven ministerial positions in the Federal Cabinet following the resignation of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz from the party, its president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister and Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, expressed confidence that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would consider reinstating the allocation in line with UMNO’s role in the unity government.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of maintaining UMNO’s representation with seven full ministers in the Cabinet. He noted that although the party was uncertain if Tengku Zafrul’s appointment was on UMNO’s ticket, it was assumed that he represented the party. With Tengku Zafrul no longer part of UMNO, the number of UMNO ministers drops to six, leading Ahmad Zahid to request that the seat be returned to the party.

Ahmad Zahid also confirmed the receipt of Tengku Zafrul’s resignation letter, which was submitted to UMNO Executive Secretary Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan. He acknowledged Zafrul’s resignation and withdrawal from the party after verifying the letter’s delivery.

Tengku Zafrul, who holds the position of Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, announced his resignation from UMNO, including his roles as Supreme Council member and Kota Raja division chief. He disclosed his intention to join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) and had already informed PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and secretary-general Dr Fuziah Salleh.

Further, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that UMNO’s legal team would review whether Tengku Zafrul breached the agreement signed during the 15th General Election (GE15), which binds candidates to the party. He highlighted a clause in the statutory declaration for GE15 candidates that could impose a RM100 million penalty if they leave the party. Although Tengku Zafrul contested and lost, he was later appointed as a Senator, and UMNO plans to consult legal advisers to examine the implications of his departure.