Isu Najib boleh bakar semangat pengundi PH, kata penganalisis

Analysts claim that supporters of Pakatan Harapan (PH) will remain enthusiastic in signaling their disapproval of the 'home arrest' process of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, which could potentially ignite the passion of PH constituents to vote in the PRN Melaka election on November 14, according to Profesor Negara Felo Majlis Azmi Hassan.

The government's announcement of its stance on Najib's 'home arrest' process reassures PH supporters that the coalition still adheres to its principles, the professor added. This issue also energizes supporters of the Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN), particularly PAS, which views Najib as a victim of the state attorney's action.

Azmi Hassan told FMT that PH supporters will also be more passionate in signaling their disapproval, so the issue will not undermine PH's support in Melaka. However, the controversy might divert the attention of voters from local issues such as living costs and development. It's intriguing as national issues, usually less influential in PRN, could become a key factor driving voter decisions.

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) researcher Mazlan Ali agrees that the Najib issue won't deter PH supporters' determination to vote. However, it may have a different impact on traditional Umno voters, especially Malay people who still remember Najib's service. Urban and suburban voters, middle-class individuals, and younger generations are more likely to view the issue through the lens of political integrity and principles.

These voters, particularly PH supporters, may not be swayed by narratives of Najib being wronged or needing protection. They might find it an exceptional privilege, especially urban dwellers, young people, and non-Malays. Mazlan Ali predicts that the issue could energize voters outside Melaka, including from the Klang Valley and Johor Bahru, who follow national political developments.

Nonetheless, the final decision of the voter remains dependent on daily issues such as living costs, development, and the performance of local representatives.