Didn't Najib praise Umcedel before, asks PKR

BN chairperson Najib Abdul Razak had praised Universiti Malaya Centre for Democracy and Elections (Umcedel) before when the group's survey had favoured him, pointed out PKR.

In a press release today, PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution urged Najib to show some consistency and respect the group's findings.

“Opinion polls are barometers which, when done professionally and in accordance with best practice methodology, are relevant and reliable.

“Nevertheless, we will abide by the final election results as decided by the rakyat on May 5,” he said.

Umcedel's survey had put PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim four points ahead of Najib on the question of who was more qualified to be prime minister.

Of the 1,407 people polled, 43 percent said Anwar was qualified while 39 percent said the same for Najib. In addition, the survey found that Malays were far more inclined towards having Anwar as prime minister.

Najib had dismissed the poll results, pointing out that BN's internal survey showed that he was in the lead and poised to return to power with a two-thirds majority in Parliament.

Saifuddin said that his party is heartened, humbled and pleased to hear the results, which he says shows that PKR’s campaign for change is bearing fruit, and puts an end to claims that the party does not enjoy Malay support.

“Pakatan Rakyat is making inroads into all sectors and communities, and will build on the faith people have given us by campaigning round-the-clock with all the hours and space available to us in the next seven days before election day,” he said.