Bayangan pindah DUN, Akmal mungkin catur strategi ke Parlimen Jasin, kata penganalisis

Dr Akmal Saleh, the current representative of DUN Merlimau, has hinted at the possibility of switching his allegiance to Parlimen Jasin rather than retaining his seat in Merlimau. According to political analysts, this move could indicate that Akmal is planning his strategy for the upcoming elections, possibly targeting the Jasin constituency in PRU16.

However, this potential shift could create complications in his relationship with PAS, which currently holds the Parlimen Jasin seat. Analysts warn that such a move could test Akmal's strong stance on Umno-PAS unity, as advocated by the party leader. Syaza Shukri, a political analyst from UiTM, suggests that Akmal's move to Jasin, or possibly Sungai Rambai or Serkam, might be a move to build broader support in Jasin, especially if he aims to contest at the national level in PRU16.

If successful, Akmal and Umno may consider contesting the Jasin seat, given that PAS narrowly won the area in the previous election. Mazlan Ali, another analyst from UTM, does not rule out the possibility of this scenario sparking controversy between Umno and PAS, which is said to be willing to collaborate until at least PRU16. Jasin is a PAS stronghold, but Umno is also preparing to field candidates in the constituency, an area where Umno usually has fewer seats.

Historically, Akmal has been one of the most prominent Umno leaders who have advocated for unity between Umno and PAS under the slogan of "Perpaduan Ummah." Before being elected as DUN Merlimau representative in PRN 2021, Akmal had no prior electoral experience. In Serkam, BN won with a narrow margin of 79 votes, while Sungai Rambai garnered 1,137 votes.

However, there are also speculations that PAS might win Merlimau if they manage to form a viable alliance with Umno, which remains undecided at this point.