MELAKA: Caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh stated that personal relationships with DAP lawmakers remain intact following the party's withdrawal from the Melaka state government, according to an interview on Sunday (Oct 4).
The departure followed the state assembly's passage of a constitutional amendment on July 14 allowing for up to seven nominated assemblymen. All four DAP assemblymen voted against the bill and subsequently resigned their administrative posts.
Ab Rauf noted that DAP executive and local councillors had received allocations, benefits, and privileges.
"We provided the same benefits and privileges to all regardless of whether they were from Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Harapan,” he said.
Looking toward the upcoming state election, Ab Rauf said Barisan Nasional leadership has authorised him to negotiate potential electoral partnerships.
"Those discussions will be based on a shared commitment to the state’s progress,” he added.
The Election Commission is scheduled to meet on Oct 7 to set the nomination and polling dates for the 16th Melaka state election.
