Zahid: Rauf given full mandate to negotiate Melaka election cooperation

Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh has been granted the full mandate to negotiate cooperation with any political coalition ahead of the forthcoming Melaka state election. Barisan Nasional chairman Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed hope that the negotiations would not become overly complicated. He stated that discussions about seat allocations are usually intricate, but with proper discussion, no issue is insurmountable.

Zahid, who also holds the position of Umno president, clarified that the decisions made during these talks would be communicated to Umno's highest leadership prior to being forwarded to the BN Supreme Council for ultimate approval.

Pakatan Harapan communications director Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil welcomed the Barisan Nasional's transparency concerning the distribution of seats for the upcoming Melaka state election, referring to it as an opportunity worth considering. Perikatan Nasional chairman Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar echoed a similar sentiment, expressing openness and readiness to engage in discussions with BN regarding the Melaka state polls.

On Saturday, Dr Ahmad Zahid reiterated that the coalition remains open to negotiations on seat allocations for the Melaka state election, including seat swaps, as long as the process is carried out honestly and in good faith.