Zahid reiterates proposal for Ab Rauf to remain Melaka CM if BN wins polls

Masjid Tanah: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reiterated his proposal that Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh should retain his position as Melaka Chief Minister should the Barisan Nasional party triumph in the upcoming state election. The BN chairman emphasized that his proposal did not override the authority of the Melaka Sultan in appointing the chief minister.

Zahid expressed his hope that the people would decide the election's outcome in the upcoming polls, scheduled for November 14, and expressed the desire for a BN-only government in Melaka once the coalition secures a majority. As BN chairman, Zahid plans to propose Ab Rauf's continued role as Melaka Chief Minister, according to a statement he made to reporters following a meeting with Ab Rauf, the BN candidate for the Tanjung Bidara seat.

This is not Zahid's first mention of Ab Rauf's retention as Melaka Chief Minister if BN secures a mandate. On October 23, Zahid stated that his confidence in Ab Rauf's leadership and capabilities, demonstrated since his tenure as Umno executive secretary, warranted his continued appointment. In the Tanjung Bidara constituency, Ab Rauf is facing off against Pakatan Harapan candidate Mohd Yunazri Mustamiri in a single-seat contest.

The two candidates' nomination was announced by Tanjung Bidara Election Commission returning officer Saifuddin Abdul Karim at the Dewan Datuk Kapt (B) Haji Ab Karim, Japerun Complex, on October 24. During the election campaign, Zahid anticipates a relatively peaceful atmosphere in Melaka and pleaded for all parties to avoid slander, insults, and derogatory remarks.

Ab Rauf's desire for a campaign free of improper tactics has also been agreed upon by the People's Alliance (PH). Zahid hopes for genuine adherence to this approach. Meanwhile, Zahid confirmed that BN and Perikatan Nasional are running candidates in all 28 state seats, with Umno contesting 18 seats, MCA four, and MIC one, while the remaining seats are contested by other BN partners.