Melaka election: PH raring to go as talks continue

MELAKA ELECTION: PH READY FOR POLLS AS DISQUILIFICATION ANNOUNCED

Kuala Lumpur, news@nst.com.my - The dissolution of the Melaka state assembly has paved the way for a competitive election, with the opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan (PH) and its component Democratic Action Party (DAP) expressing their readiness. Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong stated that the move was anticipated, as caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh had previously hinted at the dissolution in September.

PH has been preparing for the election for some time, with party members already in position. Rauf announced that Melaka's Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam had agreed to the dissolution after a meeting, putting an end to weeks of speculation.

The election is projected to include contests across all 28 seats, and parties are currently finalizing their strategies and potential agreements. Rauf mentioned that DAP's primary goal is to retain the four seats it won in the 2021 polls, with hopes of securing one or two more. Khoo noted that the focus will be on retaining the seats won previously and potentially gaining additional ones.

Adam Adli Abdul Halim, the state PKR chief, confirmed that his party's machinery was prepared for the polls. PH plans to hold a press conference upon completion of preparations, but for now, the emphasis remains on readiness. Negotiations with Bersatu and PH continue, with positive discussions between their leaders, despite challenges in DAP's perception.

Some suggest DAP might contest separately while maintaining a confidence-and-supply agreement with PH. Additionally, Bersatu is exploring cooperation with other parties and blocs for upcoming elections.