Speaking to reporters after a MyEG Services Bhd event, Zahid said criticising the president was not a basis for any disciplinary action.

“It was the act of insulting and belittling one’s own party that prompted the Supreme Council to take action so that any efforts to undermine the party are prevented,” he said.

Zahid said the decision to expel Isham was made by the Umno Supreme Council and did not require referral to the party’s disciplinary board.

“There’s no need for the disciplinary board because they would escalate the matter to the Supreme Council for a decision anyway. The council’s decision is final,” he said.

The deputy prime minister also dismissed allegations that disciplinary action against members who insult the party would damage Umno in the long run.

“Keeping such individuals in Umno would cause even more harm to the party.”

Earlier today, Isham confirmed his expulsion from the party after receiving a letter from Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.

The letter, dated Dec 8 sighted by FMT, stated that Isham had been disloyal, failed to obey orders or directives, and did not respect party decisions.

Isham said he would not appeal the decision, saying that it would be “pointless” as the decision was made by Zahid without involving the disciplinary board.

Isham’s sacking came in the wake of his criticism of the party, citing Umno’s continued cooperation with DAP. There were also claims that he had not attended several Supreme Council meetings.