PH offer aimed at ending its losing streak, says Umno Youth man

 No, thanks' says Hafiz Ariffin to PH's offer to work with BN after sustained criticism of Umno at the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections.

Hafiz Ariffin said the offer by PH was a two-pronged strategy aimed at ending their losing streak by aligning with a winning party. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

An Umno Youth leader has poured cold water on Pakatan Harapan’s offer to work with Barisan Nasional for the impending Melaka state election, taking issue with the coalition’s incessant attacks on BN and Umno during the Johor and Negeri Sembilan polls.

Hafiz Ariffin, who is Umno Youth secretary-general, also accused PH of digging up old cases and of using the recently released royal commission of inquiry report on Tabung Haji to attack Umno and BN.

“And now you want to join forces? No, thank you,” he said in a Facebook post, adding that it was his personal opinion.

Hafiz was commenting on a news report quoting PH election director Amirudin Shari as saying he had contacted Melaka BN chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh on a possible alliance at the Melaka state election.

However, Amirudin said that talks would hinge on the decision by Umno and BN’s central leadership.

Hafiz said the offer by PH was a two-pronged strategy aimed at ending their losing streak by aligning with the side that has support, and a “subtle threat” that they would pile on pressure on BN if it refuses to cooperate.

PH suffered huge losses at the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state polls.

“My advice to Melaka Youth – reject them and show them the way out,” Hafiz said.

BN and PH are coalition allies in the federal government but PH sits on the opposition bench in the Melaka state assembly. Elections to the state assembly must be held by February next year.

BN has 21 of the 28 seats, PH has five and Perikatan Nasional, two.

BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition would defend its 21 seats and is open to discussions with any coalition. - FMT