ALOR GAJAH: Rivalry in the Melaka state election must not strain ties within the federal unity government, says Barisan Nasional deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Umno deputy president and Foreign Minister urged all parties contesting the polls to campaign with dignity and avoid personal attacks.
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"We must conduct our campaign in a dignified manner because we are campaigning to form a government and not to curse, insult or vilify our opponents," he said after a gathering with the Lendu community in Durian Daun on Monday (Nov 9).
Barisan’s Lendu candidate, Datuk Abdul Hakim Abdul Wahid, was also present.
With just over four days of campaigning left, Mohamad said he hoped all parties would exercise restraint and avoid trading attacks.
He also urged party workers and ceramah speakers to address campaign issues with facts so voters could make an informed choice.
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"If any issue is raised by any quarter, it is the duty and responsibility of our speakers to explain and clarify so that voters get clear information," he said.
Earlier, Mohamad acknowledged that some supporters of former Melaka chief minister Sulaiman Ali were unhappy after Barisan dropped him as its Lendu candidate.
He said such reactions were normal after nominations, adding that Sulaiman’s decision to campaign alongside Hakim showed his commitment to Barisan.
"There will always be unhappy supporters when a candidate is replaced," he added.
Melaka goes to the polls on Saturday (Nov 14) with early voting on Tuesday (Nov 10).
