‘We won’t be backstabbed again’ says Zahid in jab at Bersatu

 

(From right) Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Mohamad Hasan and Najib Razak with other Barisan Nasional leaders at the launch of the coalition’s Melaka state election machinery today. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi says the coalition will not be “stabbed in the back” in Melaka like it was in the Sabah state election last year.

In a fiery speech at the launch of BN’s Melaka state election machinery, Zahid said the grassroots’ wishes against working with Bersatu must be honoured.

“Those who stabbed us in the back, who bit us in the Sabah election, I am determined to ensure the same snake does not bite us again for a second time.

“We must respect the decision made by the Umno general assembly, that we will not be manipulated and used again. That must be respected, we will not work with Bersatu in the Melaka state election.”

The Umno president then reiterated that it was not his stand but that of the grassroots.

“As Umno president, I must accede to the voice of the grassroots.”

He also said that for the Melaka polls, BN did not have to talk bad about its rivals and instead, just needs to inform voters what it would deliver for the good of the state.

Zahid also hinted at a change in the state’s constitution should BN win with a two-thirds majority in Melaka.

“We would push for an amendment of the state constitution to create five appointed (nominated) assemblymen posts,” he said.

He also said BN would introduce new faces in the state polls and come up with a short, but doable manifesto.

Candidates, he said, must be winnable, acceptable and likeable. They must also be knowledgeable and accepted by people from all walks of life.

“The candidate factor will determine our victory. There will also be no favouritism in the selection of candidates.” - FMT