Embattled Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that the belief that his ouster from the top post would help stave further collapse of the party was merely an "excuse" by those who have chosen to leave it.

Zahid's leadership has been heavily questioned in light of the slew of departures of lawmakers, assemblypersons and other members from the party since Umno's defeat in the 14th general election.

"It's all an excuse," he said briefly when contacted by Malaysiakini on the criticism levelled against him...