I have an appeal for delegates of the Kubang Pasu Umno division who will meet tomorrow: Please vote for Dr Mahathir Mohamad as a delegate to the 2006 Umno general assembly.

If Umno and the government, since Abdullah Ahmad Badawi took over as prime minister and party president, have been transparent, then there is nothing to fear about.

It would be even better if Mahathir was allowed to speak at the general assembly. As a fee-paying party member, he has every right to voice his grouses or fear. A transparent party and government would allow that. In fact, they would have the answers.

Rumours have it that the Biro Tata Negara and Rela members have been sent to Kubang Pasu to ensure that Mahathir is not appointed as delegate at tomorrow's election. This is shameful - the whole government and party machinery against an 81-year-old man who is just seeking answers to a few questions.

We must keep in mind that party leaders including the president would have the last say at the general assembly as they will be delivering the winding-up speeches on the final day of the assembly. Traditionally, during their winding-up speeches, they will reply to all the points raised by delegates at the two-day meeting. This will be an excellent platform for Umno leaders to answer questions raised by Mahathir. I ask again, so why fear?

If Umno has the answers, there is nothing to fear. But the question is, does Umno have the answers?

Attempts to ensure that he is not elected as a delegate at tomorrow's divisional meeting will be interpreted by outsiders as Umno's paranoia.

So Umno, please answer him.