MELAKA: PKR hopes women will make up 30% of its candidates in the upcoming Melaka state election, says Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
"We want female candidates who can effectively champion the welfare and interests of the people," the party adviser said after attending a Wanita PKR appreciation ceremony at a hotel here on Sunday (Sept 27).
Melaka PKR is expected to contest 10 seats under the Pakatan Harapan banner in the upcoming polls.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s political secretary, Datuk Azman Abidin, said the party leadership would decide on the final number of women candidates.
"I believe women will be among those fielded, but I will leave the matter of their representation to the party leadership," he said.
Azman said the priority was fielding committed candidates capable of winning voters’ confidence, particularly as PKR currently has no representation in the state legislative assembly.
He said the party machinery must also be focused to mount an effective campaign.
"If we want to spring a surprise in Melaka, our machinery must be well-trained, disciplined and focused," he added.
The state assembly was dissolved effective Wednesday (Sept 23), paving the way for the 16th Melaka election.
The Election Commission meets on Oct 7 to determine key polling dates.
