Based on Dr Mahathir Mohamad's public flagellation of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak , it is obvious that bridges have been torched.

As the nation waits with bated breath for this political drama's climax, an Umno leader downplays the issue.

Syed Ali Alhabshee said the differences of opinion between Mahathir and Najib do not mean the two are foes or that the former premier is pressuring the latter to step down.

"The two respect each other, there is no argument between them," added the Cheras Umno division chief in a blog post.

On the contrary, Syed Ali claimed that certain quarters deliberately manipulated Mahathir's remarks to divide Umno.

He said whenever Mahathir is critical of the Najib administration, the issue is exploited and blown out of proportion.

"Actually there is no big issue, but it is sensationalised to be a timebomb when there is no dispute between Mahathir and Najib," he added.

Criticisms and reprimands from the former premier is common, he said.

Umno, he said, has faced and overcome numerous struggles and tests in the past.

"Now under the leadership of Najib, Umno is moving forward with transformations in various fields although not escaping criticism," he added.

He pointed out that Najib has the support of Umno grassroots to be their president and stressed on the importance of unity to safeguard the interests of Malaysia.

Syed Ali also lambasted PKR vice-president Rafizi Ramli for instigating a feud between Mahathir and Najib.

Telling the Pandan lawmaker not to meddle in Umno’s affairs, he said Rafizi should resolve the differences in Pakatan Rakyat first.

Syed Ali was responding to Rafizi calling on Najib to drag Mahathir to court for linking him to the Altantuya Shaariibuu murder and issues in 1Malaysia Development Berhad.

"Umno leaders are not like the opposition who cook up nonsense and slander and are fond of suing others," the Umno man said.

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