SHAH ALAM: The Bersatu supreme council will hold an emergency meeting on Friday (Nov 24) to discuss party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's announcement that he would not defend his position next year.

Bersatu vice president Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee said that the announcement came as a shock to party leaders.

"The delegates' reaction showed that he is still wanted by the party. I am with the delegates (attempting to convince) Muhyiddin to reconsider," he said, adding that the polls are too far in the future for the former prime minister to make such a decision.

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"The emergency meeting will be chaired by deputy president Datuk Seri Ahmad Faisal Azumu.

"Muhyiddin is still needed as the face of the party in our ongoing struggle. Nothing is finalised yet.

"We will not collapse if Muhyiddin is not here but we need him to lead for now. This announcement of his is premature," said Kiandee.

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Earlier on Friday, Muhyiddin announced that he will not defend his post when making his policy speech at Bersatu's 6th AGM at IDCC here.

"I will not defend my post in the next party polls... The senior leadership should discuss the takeover. Take care of the party, " said Muhyiddin.