SHAH ALAM – Selangor is now a hotbed of political activity, with multiple discussions surrounding the menteri besar’s position and the appointment of executive councillors.
Caretaker menteri besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari is facing a growing chorus calling for him not to be given a second term, and several names have cropped up as his potential replacement.
Criticism of a perceived disconnect with Malay voters has cast a shadow over Amirudin’s leadership.
The murmurs on his potential ousting and the speculation surrounding it have ignited conversations across the political spectrum.
Amidst all the speculation, Seri Setia assemblyman Fahmi Ngah has come into the spotlight as a prospective successor.
Fahmi’s background in a state-related think tank and his academic achievements, including a PhD in aeronautics from London’s prestigious Imperial College, have positioned him as a contender well-equipped to steer Selangor’s industrial shift towards high-end sectors.
The alignment of his expertise with Selangor’s vision for industrial growth adds credence to the possibilities of his potential appointment.
It was said previously that three names have been submitted to the Selangor palace for consideration.
However, some others have said only Amirudin’s name has been submitted by the party.
It is also learned that Amirudin was scheduled to have an audience with the Selangor sultan yesterday to discuss this matter and also the other executive councillors.
Indian reps sidelined?
It is learned that PKR has named Tg Sepat assemblyman Borhan Aman Shah, two-term Sentosa assemblyman Gunaraj George, Kota Anggerik assemblyman Najwan Halimi and Fahmi as its executive councillor representatives.
While the spotlight is primarily on leadership transitions, the issue of who will be the next Indian executive councillors is also taking the limelight.
With DAP having provided the sole Indian representative in the state’s highest decision-making body for two terms, some have said that it was time for PKR to take that role.
PKR initially held the Indian executive councillor post in 2008 with Datuk Xavier Jeyakumar having the position, but in 2013, it was given to DAP.
PKR members have rallied behind Gunaraj to be appointed as an executive councillor, specifically due to his seniority among the Indian assemblymen in the state.
They said that Gunaraj being an executive councillor would embody the principles of inclusivity and diverse representation that are at the core of Pakatan Harapan’s values.
They also said this will do justice to PKR’s wide base of Indian support that it has enjoyed over the past several elections.
“It’s time to acknowledge the support of Indians to PKR. We cannot be constantly sidelined,” said one senior PKR member.
Give position to best candidate
Gunaraj is known for his history of engagement with the Indian community and NGOs, and has fostered a strong and cross-sectional support base among the various races.
Party members said that by having secured a resounding victory for the second time, Gunaraj’s potential appointment would be a monumental step towards ensuring equitable representation in Selangor’s administrative framework.
They said it was time for a departure from partisan considerations and that the position should be bestowed upon the best candidate, irrespective of party affiliation.
“This approach resonates with the essence of PH, which champions merit-based decision-making and the best interests of the people above all else,” said another party member.
Meanwhile, the developments in Selangor’s political landscape are being closely monitored by analysts, who perceive these shifts as indicators of the state’s future direction.
The decisions made in the coming days will not only shape the state administration, but also underscore the ruling party’s ability to navigate change while maintaining stability. – The Vibes, August 18, 2023
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