MELAKA: The Melaka state election will place brothers Dr Muhammad Solehin Saleh and Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh on opposing sides of the political divide, but the former insists their party rivalry will never turn into a family feud.
Dr Solehin, 40, who has been named Parti Bersama Malaysia’s (Bersama) candidate for Bemban, said his decision to contest under a different banner will not affect his close relationship with Dr Muhamad Akmal, who is the Umno Youth chief.
"Politics is not a religion. The bond between siblings is more important than politics.
“We are very close. His children are like my own, and mine are like his. Our mother was also present tonight.
“Despite what people may say outside or in the media, we have never quarrelled. He is a good younger brother, and I am a good elder brother. Everything is fine,” he told reporters after Bersama unveiled its state election candidates in Melaka Baru on Saturday (Aug 15).
Dr Solehin, who recently resigned from Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah), said he has been involved in politics and community work for years, including alongside Dr Akmal before his brother entered party politics.
He also rejected suggestions that his campaign would be overshadowed by Dr Akmal’s political standing, saying both brothers have established their own records of public service.
“I have been politically active for about as long as he has, although we were not in the same party.
“I was previously with Amanah but have since resigned. In Merlimau and Bemban, both of us have helped the community.
“Even before Akmal entered politics, we were already involved in non-governmental organisation work. Therefore, there is no question of one person being in the other’s shadow," he said.
Dr Solehin said his familiarity with Bemban, gained while serving as a Jasin municipal councillor, influenced his decision to contest the seat.
“I was previously a Jasin municipal councillor responsible for a zone in Bemban. We want to start engaging the people early so that they can get to know our party,” he said.
Earlier, Bersama founder Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli attended the unveiling of the party’s 15 candidates for the 28-seat Melaka legislative assembly.
Besides Bemban, Bersama will contest Kuala Linggi, Rembia, Gadek, Machap Jaya, Sungai Udang, Paya Rumput, Klebang, Pengkalan Batu, Ayer Keroh, Bukit Katil, Kesidang, Kota Laksamana, Telok Mas and Serkam.
