SEREMBAN — Former Jempol MP Datuk Seri Mohd Salim Mohd Sharif has submitted a second appeal to rejoin Umno, saying he’s remained loyal despite his six-year suspension in January 2023 for party misconduct.

Speaking to The Star, Mohd Salim said his first appeal was filed in 2024, followed by another in April this year. He denied rumours of defecting to another party and stressed his continued support for Umno, especially in his Jempol constituency.

“I’ve always stood by Umno, despite the suspension,” he said.

Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently confirmed only two suspended members had formally applied to return: Mohd Salim and ex-Pasir Salak MP Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman — the latter reinstated in November 2023.

Party leaders, including Zahid and deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, have encouraged others like Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein to follow suit by officially appealing.