ALOR GAJAH: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has signalled that Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh remain as Chief Minister if Barisan Nasional retains Melaka, calling on the coalition’s component parties to close ranks for the election.
The Barisan chairman said he would propose that Ab Rauf remain in the post, but stressed that he would not pre-empt the authority of the relevant parties and processes.
“We hope to form the Barisan Nasional government after this.
“Without pre-empting the powers that be, I, as Barisan chairman, will propose that Datuk Seri Rauf continues to carry out his duties as Melaka Chief Minister,” he said after accompanying the latter to file his nomination papers for the Tanjung Bidara seat.
Ab Rauf, who is seeking re-election for a second term, is in for a straight fight with Pakatan Harapan’s Mohd Yunazri Mustamiri.
On another matter, Ahmad Zahid said MCA’s allocation of four seats reflected Barisan’s unity, dismissing speculation that the party would boycott the election or was unhappy with the outcome of seat negotiations.
“Many expected MCA to sulk or boycott the Melaka election, but that did not happen. Instead, MCA has been given four seats,” he said.
MCA is defending Machap Jaya and Kelebang, and was allocated Kota Laksamana and Bandar Hilir following seat negotiations that concluded on Friday.
Ahmad Zahid said component parties must work together to ensure a successful election outing. “In this understanding, we will work hard to ensure that every seat we contest is won.”
Meanwhile, Ab Rauf is banking on his administrative experience and track record in leading the state government to retain the Tanjung Bidara seat and maintain Melaka as a Barisan stronghold.
He said experience and competence were important qualities for candidates entrusted with managing a diverse population comprising people of all ages.
“We welcome all candidates, whether young or old. However, when it comes to managing society, experience serves as a benchmark for our competence in carrying out the trust placed in us,” he said.
Barisan has held the Tanjung Bidara seat since the constituency was first established in 2004.
