Party performance, not Adly's record as chief minister, key to PH support, says analyst

KUALA LUMPUR: Political analyst Azmi Hassan asserts that a former chief minister's record is unlikely to sway voters in Pakatan Harapan's favour during the upcoming Malaysian general election. According to Azmi, the party's overall performance carries more weight than the accomplishments of individual candidates. Even if Adly Zahari, the ex-chief minister of Melaka, faced criticism during his tenure, it would not be the deciding factor if PH fails to form the state government.

Azmi emphasizes that voters are more focused on the coalition's capabilities rather than the performance of individual politicians. The same principle applies to other candidates, such as Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, who may be considered for the chief ministerial position by the Barisan Nasional. However, Azmi points out that party performance holds greater significance and garners voter support.

He criticizes the PH's earlier decision to claim they were not interested in forming the state government, which could have demoralized supporters. PH election director Amirudin Shari announced that Adly would be named chief minister if the coalition wins a majority in the Melaka election. Azmi contends that among PH candidates in the state polls, only Adly possesses the stature to garner voter backing as a potential chief minister.

Similar to general elections, where voters seek to know who will become prime minister, Melaka voters look for the candidate who will lead the state administration. This is why PH took the strategic approach of naming Adly as their poster boy for the chief ministerial role. Azmi concludes that Adly's experience as a chief minister makes him the most suitable candidate to represent PH, making the announcement a logical one.