There is no doubt that the 32-year-old son-in-law of outgoing Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will clear his first hurdle, as he only needs 18 more nominations (from the 119 youth divisions yet to hold their meetings) to take part in his first real contest in the party.
He was appointed into the Umno Youth executive council in 2001 by Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein (now the outgoing chief) and won the wing's No 2 post uncontested in 2004 when would-be challengers pulled out of the race.
Khairy's supporters have been proven wrong.
more: Mukhriz's popularity giving Khairy the jitters? The New Straits Times
