MELAKA: A total of 79 candidates representing various political parties, coalitions and independents have been confirmed eligible to contest in the 16th Melaka state election on Nov 14.
Election Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said Pakatan Harapan would contest 24 seats, followed by Barisan Nasional with 23, Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) with 16 and Bersatu with seven.
Perikatan Nasional will contest five seats, Parti Pribumi Perkasa Malaysia (Putra) one seat, while three candidates will contest as independents.
"Of the 28 constituencies, there will be 11 straight fights, 11 three-cornered contests and six four-cornered contests.
"In terms of gender, there are 65 male candidates and 14 female candidates," he told a press conference at the Ayer Keroh Federal Building here Saturday (Oct 31).
Ramlan said the oldest candidate was Pakatan Harapan's Telok Mas candidate Mohamad Jaafar, 66, while the youngest was the coalition's Kuala Linggi candidate Muhammad Mukhlisul Mubin Julaisapiyah, 24.
He said two candidates were aged between 18 and 29, 14 between 30 and 39, 33 between 40 and 49, 22 between 50 and 59, and eight were aged 60 and above.
He added that the campaign period would run until 11.59pm on Nov 13.
"The EC has established 28 Election Campaign Enforcement Teams (PP-KPR) to monitor the activities of all contesting candidates throughout the campaign period.
"The EC also hopes and reminds all parties to ensure that permitted campaign activities are conducted in a harmonious atmosphere and in compliance with the laws and regulations," he said.
Ramlan also congratulated and commended all returning officers and their teams for ensuring the smooth conduct of today’s nomination proceedings.
"Appreciation and thanks are also extended to the Melaka State Secretary’s office and the departments and agencies under its purview, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Malaysian Department of Insolvency, the Communications Ministry, media personnel, and all other parties involved, whether directly or indirectly," he said.
The EC has set Nov 10 for early voting and Nov 14 as polling day for the 16th Melaka State Election. - Bernama
