PUTRAJAYA: Barisan Nasional is set to introduce several new faces in its line-up for the upcoming Johor state election as part of efforts to inject fresh leadership into the coalition, says its chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Umno president, said Barisan would continue to adhere to its candidate selection philosophy of choosing individuals who are “winnable, likeable and acceptable”.
“The philosophy of being winnable, likeable and acceptable will continue to be maintained.
“God willing, we will combine existing office-bearers with new faces,” he told reporters when met at the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s monthly assembly here on Thursday (June 4).
“This time, new faces will also colour the landscape of leadership talent in Johor, bringing forward a new generation of leaders,” the deputy prime minister added.
He said the coalition was in the final stages of preparing its candidate list for all 56 seats in the Johor state assembly.
“I will finalise Barisan Nasional’s list of candidates for the 56 state seats as soon as possible and, God willing, the names will be announced a week before nomination day,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said the early announcement would allow any issues involving specific constituencies to be addressed and resolved ahead of the campaign period.
Meanwhile, he said Barisan was continuing efforts to strengthen its election machinery in Johor while mobilising support from party workers in other states.
“We are in the process of strengthening our existing machinery and are also mobilising our friends from other states to assist Johor,” he said.
The Johor state assembly was dissolved on Monday (June 1), paving the way for the 16th state election, with Barisan expected to contest all 56 seats.
The Election Commission has yet to announce the polling, nomination and early voting dates.
