Bersatu to contest for Pulai parliamentary by-election, PAS for Simpang Jeram, says source

KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional has decided that a candidate from Bersatu will contest the Pulai parliamentary by-election and a candidate from PAS for the Simpang Jeram state by-election, says a source.

The source said that this was decided by the top coalition leadership to ensure that Perikatan only fields candidates who could win the two by-elections.

"We are banking on the wave of Malay support which gave us many wins in the six state elections to continue in these two by-elections," said the source.

The two by-elections were triggered after the death of Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, 61, on July 23.

The Amanah deputy president held both seats at the time of his death.

Meanwhile, PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, when met by media after the PAS Central Committee meeting at PAS headquarters here on Saturday (Aug 19) morning said that the candidates for both by-elections had been discussed and an official announcement would be made by top Pakatan leaders soon.

"Our choice of candidates are based on their ability to win. As the 'green wave' has made its way to Selangor and Negri Sembilan, we are sure it will reach Johor as well," said Abdul Hadi.

Nomination day for the Simpang Jeram state seat and Pulai parliamentary by-elections is Aug 26, with polling on Sept 9 and early voting on Sept 5.