Zahid signals BN flexibility on Melaka state election seat swaps

Barisan Nasional Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has signaled flexibility regarding seat swaps during the upcoming Melaka State Election, as long as all discussions are conducted with sincerity and uphold each party's existing seats. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the fundamental rule of any electoral pact requires political partners to respect seats won by incumbent parties.

Zahid stated that while negotiations could involve seat swaps, the total number of seats must remain equal. His comments followed criticism from Angkatan Muda Keadilan chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, who questioned the BN's sincerity following UMNO President's announcement to defend all 21 seats won in the last state poll. Zahid noted that parties leading other state administrations in Peninsular Malaysia likely share the same stance, and indicated that negotiations could extend to inter-state seat exchanges with coalition partners, provided the trades remain balanced.

He stressed that while the BN is open to dialogue, clear boundaries are necessary to safeguard established political mandates.