Harapan delegates: Prolonged talks on PM candidate spurring our spirits

With less than 24 hours left until Pakatan Harapan's main convention, it remains uncertain whether the coalition will be able to officially name its prime ministerial candidate tomorrow.

The open discussion and disagreement over whether Harapan chairperson Dr Mahathir Mohamad should be nominated as the prime ministerial candidate had even caused concern that it could reflect badly on the coalition.

Some delegates at the Harapan wings' convention today expressed frustration at the prolonged discussion, but most said it was nothing to split hairs about.

Instead, several delegates said the ongoing discussions have made them even more fired up for the 14th general election, which must be called by June this year.

Perak DAP delegate V Shasha (photo), 38 did not mind the prolonged talks.

"We have our agenda, which is to capture Putrajaya. On the prime ministerial candidate and other issues, it is just politics.

"What is more important is the message we would like to convey to the rakyat," she told Malaysiakini at the Harapan women's wings convention in Kajang today.

PKR delegate Sharifah Khadijah (photo), who hails from Petaling Jaya, also brushed aside the prolonged discussions.

"It's normal and it doesn't tire us. Instead, it makes us more spirited. God willing, we can win (in the 14th general election)," said the woman in her 60s.

Echoing this, 42-year-old Sharifah Abdul Kadir (photo) said the party's grassroots are more motivated to mobilise.

"Ultimately the discussions will lead to a consensus on leading the country and a more organised campaign," she said.

She added that a prime ministerial candidate would spur confidence amongst the grassroots.

However, Bersatu member Azura Hussin (photo), 40, showed signs of fatigue.

"It's tiring and we can't wait anymore. We're being pressured from left and right, front and back.

"Enough talk; we need to act now and execute immediately.

"The Harapan leadership needs to stop talking about the prime ministerial candidate and focus on the rakyat," she said.

Harapan's main convention will take place tomorrow. Mahathir has indicated that the coalition is expected to announce its prime ministerial candidate then.

However, in the same statement, Mahathir made a contradicting remark that the candidate could be announced after the convention.

PKR leaders have also indicated that no decision has been made.- Mkini