MELAKA: Barisan Nasional is expected to shake up its candidate line-up in eight constituencies for the Melaka polls, with performance, seniority and seat-sharing considerations driving the changes, according to a coalition insider.
The insider said Kuala Linggi, Rembia, Gadek, Sungai Udang, Pengkalan Batu, Bemban, Serkam and Sungai Rambai were among the seats likely to see changes when Barisan announced its candidates on Oct 28.
“Some incumbents may be retained and others moved, while new faces could be brought in where the leadership believes a change would strengthen our chances,” the insider said.
Sungai Udang is shaping up to be one of the constituencies to watch, with Paya Rumput assemblyman Datuk Rais Yasin increasingly linked to the seat.
“Rais is almost confirmed as the candidate for Sungai Udang as Barisan looks to recapture the constituency. However, the final decision depends on the leadership and any negotiations,” the insider said.
Rais, who is also Melaka Umno deputy chairman, could face a seat-sharing dilemma involving incumbent Dr Mohd Aleef Yusof of Parti Wawasan Negara (Wawasan).
“If an understanding between Barisan and Perikatan Nasional materialises, Sungai Udang could be part of the discussions. Whether the incumbent stays or makes way would have to be negotiated,” the insider said.
Barisan wants to recapture Sungai Udang, while Wawasan is also keen to retain the seat. Similar considerations could affect Bemban, held by Wawasan’s Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub.
In Rembia, PAS incumbent Datuk Muhamad Jailani Khamis adds another dimension to Barisan’s calculations.
“The question is who would give Barisan the strongest chance in Rembia, taking into account changes in political support and cooperation between parties,” the insider said.
In Pengkalan Batu, the service record of 73-year-old incumbent Datuk Kalsom Nordin will be weighed against the possibility of introducing a successor.
“Kalsom has served the constituency well in the past five years, but age could be among the factors in deciding whether she will be fielded again,” the insider said.
In Serkam, Datuk Zaidi Attan’s three terms could also come under consideration.
“Zaidi brings experience but after three terms, the party may consider introducing a fresh face.
“The decision will depend on what the leadership believes is best for the constituency and coalition,” added the insider.
In Sungai Rambai, incumbent Datuk Siti Faizah Abdul Azis’ position remains uncertain ahead of the announcement.
Kuala Linggi and Gadek were also identified as constituencies where changes were expected, although the insider did not elaborate on possible candidates.
“The challenge is to balance incumbents’ loyalty and experience with grassroots expectations and the need to select candidates who can win,” said the insider.
The Election Commission has fixed Oct 31 for nominations, Nov 10 for early voting and Nov 14 for polling in the Melaka state election.
