Pelangai by-election: Don't question police’s professionalism - Zahid

BENTONG - The opposition is reminded not to question the professionalism of authorities performing their duties throughout the Pelangai State Assembly by-election.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the claims brought up by Pas secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan could create confusion.

"I know him personally and he will use anything to bring up an issue not only for the purpose of attacking but to cause confusion.

"Police are very professional, they wanted to observe any political parties or candidates campaigning.

"Don’t question the professionalism of enforcement agencies, especially the police,” he said in a press conference after officiating the Myfuture Jobs Bersama Hawa Malaysia Carnival in Felda Chemomoi here on Saturday.

Pas on Friday claimed the unusual presence of authorities in several campaign activities organised by the party for the Pelangai by-election caused unrest among supporters.

Takiyuddin said the actions gave an unhealthy image of the nation’s democratic practices.

He claimed the presence of patrol vehicles frequenting the operations headquarters especially those owned by Perikatan Nasional (PN) on the reason for gaining information on the strength of the staff and work movements while it had nothing to do with the agency.

However, PN candidate Kasim Samat was reported stating he personally did not mind the presence of authorities as it did not affect him and he did not deny that there were reports of campaigns ‘interrupted’ by the situation.