KUALA LUMPUR: Seat negotiations in Barisan Nasional for the Johor and Negri Sembilan state elections are expected to be finalised next week as preparations for the polls intensify.
Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said discussions among coalition partners were now in their final stages.
“We are currently in negotiations on seat allocations for the Johor and Negri Sembilan state elections.
“God willing, this will be finalised next week,” he told reporters after the launch of the Anti-Bullying Tribunal here yesterday.
His remarks came a day after Barisan secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said seat negotiations were progressing smoothly and he was confident there would be no overlap in claims among component parties.
Negri Sembilan dissolved its 36-seat state assembly on June 4, three days after Johor dissolved its legislature.
Asyraf said Barisan had instructed its candidates and campaign machinery to focus on policy proposals rather than personal attacks during the campaign.
He said a decision by the Umno Supreme Council prohibited campaign materials targeting the character of political opponents or criticising candidates from other parties, in line with the spirit of the unity government.
“Campaign materials for the Johor and Negri Sembilan elections will focus on policies and proposals that can benefit the people.
“Even the party president has reminded us not to touch on personal matters or expose the shortcomings of any individual,” he said.
Asked about speculation that Melaka could also dissolve its state assembly in the near future, Asyraf said the decision rested solely with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
