KUALA LUMPUR, January 4- UMNO has decided not to go ahead with the solidarity rally in support of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on January 6th at Putrajaya's Palace of Justice.

UMNO Secretary General Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said the decision was based on the principle of upholding the orders of His Majesty, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the directive of the Inspector-General of Police.

He said UMNO complied with all the recommendations of His Majesty's decree to respect the prerogative powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong by using the established legal channels to submit an appeal on behalf of the former Prime Minister.

"UMNO will never turn its back on the Constitution and will continue to respect all rules and laws that have been established as per His Majesty's decree.

"UMNO has full confidence in the compassion and wisdom of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in granting full justice to Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak", he said in a statement.

He also said that, as the only party that consistently advocates for and defends the institution of Malay Rulers as enshrined in the party's constitution, UMNO always places the highest priority and respect for His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

"UMNO respects the decree of His Majesty the King in relation to the prerogative powers under the provisions of Articles 42 (1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution to grant pardons, deferment of sentence and legal relief for any offences committed in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya.

UMNO also expressed its appreciation to all members who affirmed their high commitment to provide moral support, even though there were no prior official directives from the UMNO headquarters.