Urban Wellbeing, Housing, and Local Government Minister Abdul Rahman Dahlan may be a loyalist of Najib Abdul Razak but he is against any moves to purge the prime minister's critics from the party.

In particular, Abdul Rahman was referring to Umno deputy president Muhyiddin Yasin and Umno vice-president Shafie Apdal who, in July, were dropped from the government due to their criticism of Najib.

"In my heart, I do not think it will happen (but) I was not called to discuss (the matter).

"Personally, I do not think that it will be a wise move (to sack them).

"Not at this time; we are already facing many difficulties as it is," he told journalists in Kuala Lumpur today.

Abdul Rahman, who is also BN strategic communications director, was asked on rumours that the duo may be sacked during the Umno supreme council meeting on Sept 9.

The supreme council member said he will not be present during the meeting next week as he will be overseas.

Among other leaders speculated to be on the chopping board were Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir, Kulim Bandar Baru MP Aziz Sheikh Fadzir, former Terengganu menteri besar‎ Ahmad Said, and former Perak executive council member Hamidah Osman.

Pasir Salak Umno at its delegates' meeting today said it supports vice president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as deputy president.

Zahid took over as deputy prime minister when Muhyiddin was sacked, following his remarks on state investment firm 1Malaysia Development Bhd.

Malaysiakini understands that Muhyiddin is preparing his defence in the event that he is kicked out as party number two at next week's supreme council meeting.

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