KUALA LUMPUR — Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi has announced his immediate resignation from the party, declaring that Umno Johor is no longer free to make its own decisions and has fallen under the control of the palace.
The former Johor State Assembly Speaker said the move was driven by principle, not personal gain.
“With a heavy heart, I announce my resignation from UMNO effective today, June 25, 2026. UMNO need not trouble itself to expel me. This allows me to differ openly without being accused of betraying the party,” he wrote on Facebook.
“Now I am free to criticise Umno — a platform I have long respected and cherished for Malays and Malaysians.”
Puad dismissed suggestions that his exit was self-serving, pointing out that he was leaving at a time when Umno was projecting strength, contesting 56 seats solo, and welcoming back figures such as Khairy Jamaluddin, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, and Tan Sri Noh Omar.
“So who is acting out of self-interest — them, or me?” he asked.
He alleged that Johor Umno’s autonomy had been compromised, citing a recent conversation with Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
“Onn Hafiz admitted to me that it was the palace that instructed him to dissolve the Johor assembly on June 1, 2026. There are many other examples where he merely followed orders. This has turned Umno Johor into a puppet,” Puad claimed.
Framing his departure as an act of “political courage,” Puad said he was prepared to face condemnation, humiliation, and even threats to his safety.
“I will not allow Umno to be led by ‘political cowards’ who recycle candidates, ignore youth aspirations, and settle for mediocrity,” he declared.
Puad, who will not defend his Rengit state seat in the upcoming Johor polls, had already voiced unease over Umno Johor’s candidate list, describing it as “troubling.”
Rengit is one of three state constituencies under Batu Pahat, where Puad once served as Umno division chief.
Concluding his statement, Puad said:
“I place my trust in Allah, the ultimate protector. I will fight in whatever circumstances lie ahead.” – June 25, 2026