KUALA LUMPUR – As Barisan Nasional (BN) celebrated its landslide win at the Melaka election, former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak took the opportunity to take a dig at rival Pakatan Harapan (PH).
In a Facebook post after the results were announced, the former BN chairman and ex-Umno president said that the election should not have happened in the first place.
He suggested that the people of Melaka were forced to the polls.
Najib claimed that Pakatan Harapan (PH) had conspired with the four assemblymen who withdrew their support for incumbent Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali.
The four reps’ move had led to Melaka Governor Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam dissolving the state assembly, paving the way for the snap polls.
“The people have spoken and made their choice,” said Najib, who is the MP for Pekan. “Political frogs have been rejected outright.”
He added that the election was not easy for BN, given the constant battles and defamatory statements made against the coalition.
However, he contended that the inadequate preparation and lack of direction of BN’s opponents contributed to their loss.
“The people chose stability and prosperity. To everyone in Melaka, thank you,” Najib said.
He expressed confidence that Sulaiman, having obtained a fresh mandate from voters, will lead the state to progress and ensure political stability.
Najib further assured voters that they can hold BN to account for the promises made during the campaign period.
“To all BN assemblymen, you have been given the mandate by the people. Strive to do your best as there is no time to waste,” Najib added.
He also took the opportunity to thank PAS’ grassroots in Melaka who provided support based on the spirit of Muafakat Nasional, a political cooperation agreed between PAS and Umno.
“A relationship based on the spirit of struggle will never be broken,” he added.
In the election today, BN thundered to a landslide victory, bagging 21 of the 28 seats in the state assembly. PH won five seats while Perikatan Nasional won only two. – The Vibes, November 20, 2021
