SHAH ALAM – Controversies involving Bersama and criticism of its leader Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli could affect the party's support in the Melaka state election, an Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK) leader has claimed.
AMK executive council member Dzul Hilmi Zainol said voters could reject Bersama, which is led by Rafizi, over what he described as misleading narratives frequently raised by the former minister and his record in government.
He also said the recent alleged ‘khalwat’ controversy involving Nik Nazmi could influence voters’ decisions on whether to support Bersama’s 16 candidates in the state election.
“People are fed up with the revelations Rafizi frequently makes and will assess the country’s achievements and progress, particularly in the economic sector, since Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took over the government about four years ago.
“At the same time, Melaka voters will certainly assess the ability of Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidates to resolve various public issues through strong cooperation with the Federal Government,” he said in a statement on Nov 2.
Rafizi had previously joked that his party’s supporters would ‘slaughter’ him if Bersama joined any political coalition, arguing that voters were increasingly tired of political alliances formed around power struggles.
Bersama is contesting independently, fielding candidates in 16 seats in the Melaka state election scheduled for Nov 14.
Dzul Hilmi said AMK intended to highlight the Federal Government’s economic performance and efforts to address the rising cost of living as key campaign issues.
He added that PH had pledged to avoid exploiting racial sentiments and making personal attacks during the campaign.
Instead, the coalition would campaign under the theme “Melaka Rumah Kita”, with a manifesto focused on employment opportunities, the cost of living and the future of young people.