Melaka polls: Bersatu open to last-minute understanding with PH, says Azmin

Melaka: Bersatu Secretary-General Mohamed Azmin Ali has not dismissed the idea of a more cooperative understanding between his party and Pakatan Harapan as the election campaign in Melaka draws to a close. Azmin suggested that such an arrangement could potentially be contemplated at a later stage if both factions deem it to be the optimal strategy.

However, neither party has formally indicated their willingness to collaborate in the state election thus far. He recognized the reality that Bersatu cannot operate independently and needs to partner with other entities to maintain political stability. Azmin maintained that it is too early to predict voter sentiments at the end of the campaign, as individuals typically solidify their preferences once they have reviewed the candidates' platforms and promises.

Parties often leverage this period to enhance their public image. If a cooperative approach proves to be the most advantageous, Azmin indicated that Bersatu may entertain it when the time is right. Currently, every Bersatu candidate is actively engaging with voters in their constituencies. In the upcoming Melaka election, Bersatu is fielding candidates in seven constituencies: Lendu, Sungai Udang, Pantai Kundor, Kelebang, Pengkalan Batu, Ayer Keroh, and Bemban.

Although the party has not formed any alliances with other parties in Melaka, a prior understanding existed before determining the number of seats they would contest. This understanding was deemed beneficial for state stability and unity among Melaka's populace. Considering the pros and cons of this arrangement, Bersatu agreed that they could not operate in isolation.

The party needed to navigate through political cooperation or an alliance that would secure stability for both the state and the nation. While Bersatu has not joined or formed an alliance with any party in Melaka, they did reach an understanding regarding the allocation of seats that would be contested. Azmin confirmed that Bersatu was open to receiving the support of Pakatan Harapan in the seven constituencies they were contesting, though neither party had officially confirmed any form of cooperation for the election.

For the 21 constituencies Bersatu was not contesting, Azmin stated that he would defer the decision to party members to decide which candidates from other parties should receive their support, based on their ability to deliver the best service to the people. He urged party members to prioritize candidates representing moderate and progressive parties when allocating support to the 21 non-Bersatu candidates on November 14.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the voters in Melaka, whom Azmin expressed faith in, given their youth and potential wisdom. Azmin emphasized that the focus of Bersatu's efforts would be solely on the seven contested seats, while the remaining 21 seats would be left to the discretion of respective political parties to determine their course of action.