Kekuatan BN di Melaka tak bergantung pada Akmal semata-mata, kata penganalisis

Analysts have emphasized that the strength of the Barisan Nasional (BN) in Melaka does not solely depend on Dr Akmal Saleh. Afifi Abdul Razak, an academic from the Universiti Utara Malaysia, noted that BN's strength relies on a combination of parties, candidates, and the current political environment. The absence of Umno Youth Chief Akmal may slightly impact BN's appeal to young voters in certain regions, but it does not necessarily diminish their chances of winning nationwide.

In the short term, this could harm Akmal's political career prospects, but sacrificing such principles could serve as a long-term political asset. Akmal, who represents the Merlimau constituency, stated that he would not contest the Melaka PRN if BN and Pakatan Harapan (PH) were to cooperate during the election. This stance aligns with PH's Secretary-General Saifuddin Nasution Ismail's open remarks about a possible coalition to face the Melaka PRN.

Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri, from Global Asia Consulting, sees Akmal's decision as a test of Umno's willingness to compromise for the sake of a strategic election plan. He believes Akmal has the foundation to vote due to his influence within Umno, particularly among those less comfortable with BN-PH cooperation. However, politics should not be judged solely on emotions; principles can win hearts, but strategy determines victory.

Kamarul Zaman Yusoff, another analyst, suggested that Akmal's absence might have a symbolic and local impact, but it is unlikely to undermine BN's overall strategy. While Akmal is important to Umno, Umno cannot rely on him alone. What matters more is whether BN can maintain its core supporters while attracting voters from the upper tier.