KUALA LUMPUR: Political tension within the unity government bloc intensified as Federal Territories Umno Youth chief Datuk Aliff Firdaus Abd Hadi publicly rebuked FT AMK chief Asheeq Ali Sethi Alivi, urging him not to interfere in Umno’s internal issues, particularly regarding criticisms directed at Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Salleh over the Titah Addendum controversy.
Aliff accused AMK WP of overstepping by commenting on Umno’s position, insisting that Asheeq’s statements were disrespectful and failed to appreciate the emotional impact of the recent High Court ruling on Umno members.
“To AMK WP, there is no need to meddle in the affairs of others. Advise your own leaders first, and ensure fairness when holding power. Also tell your partners not to behave arrogantly, because everyone has a limit,” he said.
He argued that the court decision rejecting claims regarding the Titah Addendum was deeply felt by the party grassroots, noting that something initially branded as ‘hearsay’ had eventually been taken to court and later deemed invalid.
Aliff went further, questioning whether Umno was still valued within the coalition and hinting that the party would rather stand as “a dignified Opposition” than be treated as insignificant.
His statement also criticised leaders of several component parties for allegedly making harsh remarks when Umno was grieving, recalling that Umno did not react disrespectfully when those parties previously faced political and legal trials of their own.
FT AMK had earlier condemned Dr Akmal’s response to the ruling, warning that his comments could confuse the public and harm perceptions of the judiciary. Asheeq stressed that the decision was a result of due legal process, not political motives.
This exchange underscores rising sensitivities following the High Court’s rejection of claims that a Titah Addendum allowing Najib house arrest was ever formally decided during the Pardons Board’s January 2024 meeting — a ruling that has legal implications but also strong emotional and political resonance among Umno supporters.