TEMERLOH: Barisan Nasional has established a political school under the Umno Cadre and Training Council to train back-up (new) leaders who have the potential to become general election candidates.
Sinar Harian reported that its president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the establishment of a political school at the Institut Latihan Memperkasa Ummah (ILMU) in Janda Baik, Pahang, was decided about two months ago.
According to him, through the political school, those who are identified and selected will be trained in the theory and practice of leadership.
"We will evaluate their performance during the training at the political school.
"Those who have the potential will be listed to be examined and then we will determine who can or is eligible to be appointed as a candidate for the seat in the next election," he said.
The portal reported that he said this when met after officiating the Pahang State Barisan Convention 2024 held in conjunction with the Barisan's 50th Golden Jubilee Anniversary Celebration at the Tun Razak Hall here on Sunday (Oct 27).
Also present was Pahang Barisan Chairman, Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.
Ahmad Zahid said, the candidate selection will take into account the acceptance of the voters and whether the chosen individual is favoured or otherwise.
"This new approach will be implemented throughout the country and the list of candidates who will attend the training at the political school will be selected and determined by the respective state Barisan Chairmen.
"It is being compiled and we hope that it can be looked at in the near future," he said.
Earlier in his speech, the deputy prime minister said that the line-up of leaders needs to be found early.
He said, backup leaders need to be trained from now on at all levels.
"You have to find a replacement to continue serving the people," he said.
Meanwhile, he reminded Barisan leaders and members not to take the upcoming election for granted.
"Everyone has to work hard and be 'colour blind' in helping and forgiving the voters who mistakenly voted for another party in the last election.
"We all know that political enemies try various tactics and strategies, including to capture Pahang, but we have to take steps to correct past mistakes and rise again," he said.
