After being stopped from leaving Malaysia on a chartered private plane, Najib Razak said on Saturday, May 12, he will step down as the president of the United Malay National Organisation (Umno).

Speaking at the party's Supreme Council meeting, he said: "I have a moral responsibility to step down."

The acting president role will be filled by Umno vice-president and former deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The party's youth leader and former defence minister Hishammuddin Hussein will stand in as deputy president.

Cannot leave Malaysia

The former prime minister initially said he and his family will be taking a break abroad from Saturday.

They were going to use this break period to mull over the Barisan Nasional’s loss of public support in the recently-concluded 14th general election.

"During this period, I will decide on my position as president of Umno and Barisan Nasional chairman, taking into account the deterioration of the people's support to Barisan Nasional in the 14th General Election," Najib said on his Facebook page.

"I note the views of various leaders and party members at all levels of my position," he wrote.

“As soon as I return home next week, I will announce my decision and my plans for the future."

His travel plans have since been disrupted. The Immigration Department of Malaysia has "blacklisted" Najib and his wife from travelling abroad and cannot leave Malaysia.

No reason was given by the immigration authorities.

Taking full responsibility

In his Facebook post, Najib also said he is taking full responsibility for the outcome of the General Election.

"During this period I appeal to all Umno and Barisan Nasional members to remain calm and steadfast and continue to strengthen our bonds, especially in this challenging political environment," he added.

"Any decision I make is only to ensure that Umno and Barisan Nasional regain their strength and regain the trust of the people.

"I believe that Umno and Barisan Nasional can do that because, for 60 years of governing the country, we have proven our ability to serve Malaysians.

"Let us all try to fix all the weaknesses."

[related_story]

Previously: