Rauf’s predecessor Sulaiman opts out of Melaka polls

Former Melaka chief minister Sulaiman Ali, who represented the Lendu constituency for three terms, has announced his decision not to participate in the upcoming state election on November 14. Sulaiman, who served as chief minister from 2020 to 2023 before Ab Rauf Yusoh assumed the position, stated that he had served enough terms in elections, according to Berita Harian.

Sulaiman first won his seat in 2013 and held the position of Lendu assemblyman for two additional terms, securing a commanding 3,104-vote majority in the 2021 Melaka polls. With the support of Bersatu, he was appointed chief minister in March 2020, following the downfall of the Pakatan Harapan state government. Rumors circulated after the 2021 state election that Rauf intended to remove Sulaiman from the chief minister's role.

Despite the speculation, Sulaiman remained in office until March 2023, when he unexpectedly resigned as chief minister, though he consistently denied plans to step down. Rauf ultimately took over the chief ministership. Sulaiman denied being forced to resign and urged the people of Melaka to support Rauf.