PETALING JAYA: Umno Perak will submit a shortlist of six individuals for consideration to represent the unity government in the upcoming Ayer Kuning State Legislative Assembly by-election.
According to Sinar Harian, its chairman, Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, said the list, which includes both men and women, will be sent to the Umno President, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, for further review.
"According to Umno’s Constitution, Clause 15.13.1, the Umno division committee must prepare the proposed names. I have received the mandate during the division committee meeting to send all their names, which include the acting division chief, deputy division chief, vice division chief, division secretary, division treasurer, information chief, women's chief, youth chief, and Puteri chief," he said.
He made the remarks after officiating the opening of the Green Excel Manufacturing Sdn Bhd factory in Kamunting on Saturday (March 1).
According to Saarani, two individuals from the list have informed him that they are withdrawing from the race for the Barisan Nasional (BN)-held seat.
"Yesterday (Friday), I informed that these eight names must be approved by the party president for selection, but if anyone intends to withdraw, they can WhatsApp me. So far, two people have WhatsApped me and decided not to withdraw, leaving six. This list will still be considered, and there might be more withdrawals... it's uncertain," he said.
He added that Umno would put forward candidates who meet the criteria of being winnable, acceptable, and likeable, as recently outlined by Ahmad Zahid.
"Therefore, we are confident that we have a candidate who meets these criteria, and I am sure when the candidate is announced, they will receive support from all."
"From the eight names I sent, only one will be chosen, and the other seven will work hard to ensure the victory. I am not worried about the candidate issue," he said.
Earlier, the Election Commission (EC) will hold a special meeting for the Ayer Kuning by-election on March 7. A press conference will be held after receiving official notification from the Perak State Legislative Assembly Speaker, Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid, regarding the unexpected vacancy of the seat following the death of its incumbent, Ishsam Shahruddin, on February 22.
