PUTRAJAYA: Umno will support the initiatives to maintain a unity government for the sake of political stability, economic development and national prosperity.

Its president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said this is in line with the need for continuous commitment to these goals, irrespective of the changing political landscapes.

"We are open and Umno-BN is very attentive to our friends in the unity government, which made up of 18 parties.

"Although we are in different parties, our objective remains the same.

"What's important is that the political stability must be defended," he said during the Santunan Kasih Syawal programme, here.

Therefore, the 16th general election (GE16) is an election that will translate how political stability and unity among the 18 parties can be safeguarded, he said.

Zahid was asked if Umno would support PKR's proposal to maintain a unity government led by current Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the next term.

On April 21, it was reported that PKR would start preparing for GE16 two years earlier to ensure Anwar remains as the prime minister.

PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli said this was why PKR would be rolling out two plans, known as Kemas16 and Pop25 to strengthen the grassroots and leadership in preparation for GE16.

Meanwhile, Zahid highlighted the importance of maintaining the current parliamentary majority and urged all political leaders to prioritise national stability above partisan interests.

"In my opinion, the 152 members of parliament who show more than a two-thirds majority must be maintained.

"And the methods and approaches to preserve political stability vary," he said.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1043393/umno-committed-supporting-unity-govts-initiatives-maintain-political