Saiful claims he has nobody backing him as he faces 'army' in PD polls, asks for donations

PORT DICKSON: Independent candidate Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan (pic) says he is motivated to serve the people although he is facing a well-equipped "army" in the Oct 13 Port-Dickson by-election.

"I am doing it for the love of my country and continued political stability," he claimed.

Describing himself as a "small man" and youngest of all aspirants, Saiful said he chose Port Dickson because he wished to make a grand entry into politics and Parliament.

"Even if I have to fight an army which is really well equipped," he told reporters on Tuesday (Oct 2).

Saiful, who was Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's former aide, said he was "alone" in this fight and not sponsored by anyone.

"We cannot have a man who triggered this by-election and wasted public funds just to fulfil his political ambition," he said.

Saiful said if Anwar had not made the decision to try and get into Parliament so soon, the Pakatan Harapan government could have continued with its agenda to strengthen the economy.

Saiful also appealed for public donations to ensure he could carry out his campaign effectively.

"I truly need your support because as you can see, I have not been able to put up any posters or banners.

"I would even welcome RM1 as that will go a long way to help me fund my campaign," he said, adding that he will be transparent with the amount raised.

Saiful added that he welcomed volunteers to help in his campaign.

He said if elected, he would never betray the trust of the voters by resigning before completing his term.

Asked if he would join any political party if he won, he said none of the existing parties shared his ideology.

"I would remain an independent as I feel that's what makes me happy," he added.

Saiful also refused to comment on talk that Anwar's detractors would use sex videos allegedly featuring the PKR president-elect to derail his campaign.

"I guarantee you that I won't do such a thing but what others do is beyond me," he added.

Saiful also questioned if it was acceptable for a private company to sponsor billboards to promote Anwar during the campaign period.

He asked how was it possible that the company could use its logo and have its name printed on election material in support of Anwar.

"Can a private company sponsor the huge billboard?

"Did the company get anything out of it?" he asked.

The Port Dickson parliamentary by-election will see a seven-cornered fight between Pakatan candidate Anwar, PAS candidate Mohd Nazari Mokhtar and five independent candidates, including Tan Sri Mohd Isa Abdul Samad and Mohd Saiful.