New political landscape requires a balance of old and new faces - Zuraida

SHAH ALAM - Recently it was rumoured that some experienced leaders who have joined certain parties in Perikatan Nasional (PN) will be placed as candidates in the upcoming state and by-elections.

Muafakat Nasional (MN) deputy chairman Datuk Hajah Zuraida Kamaruddin said Tan Sri Annuar Musa who is rumoured to be among the favourites, will be placed as a candidate in the Kuala Terengganu Parliamentary by - election.

“After the last 15th general election (GE15), we all have to agree that the political dynamics of the country has significantly changed.

“There are experienced political figures who have migrated and there are others who have been abandoned by the political parties they have joined for decades.

“Changes after changes in the political landscape have created a new political line that will directly have a huge impact in the state government and maybe even at the federal level.

“To be honest, this is the time for PN to take a chance by fielding high-calibre candidates to win the hearts of the voters,” she said.

By giving the example of Tan Sri Annuar Musa's case, who is a seasoned politician, the probability for PN to win back the seat of Kuala Terengganu will be easier.

“However, if this happens, there will be little opposition, especially from some parties who care about party hierarchy and based on local interests.

“We fully understand the local sentiments and appreciate the efforts and work they have done, especially in activating the party’s programmes at the grassroots level.

“But, at a time when we are faced with a bigger threat, which is the survival of the Malays/Bumiputeras and the weakening of Islamic sovereignty, we should set aside our personal opinions and be united in electing candidates who can represent the people better,” she said.

Zuraida went on to say that the political dynamics at this point require a balance between the old faces and the new faces

“This dynamic will be able to provide better services to the people, while also being able to contribute to the development of the state and the country in a better direction.

“In the context of the state election that will take place in August, PN needs to strive to form a shadow leadership to show the people the pattern of governance that will be implemented, especially for states such as Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.

“With the presence of veteran political figures combined with young leaders who have high intellect, it is not impossible for PN to sweep all the seats that will be contested in the state elections this time.

“Basically, whoever is selected as a candidate, not only needs to ensure that they will be elected by the people but also be able to carry out their responsibilities as a representative of the people if they succeed in winning the contested seat.

“I believe that PN will make the best possible decisions in the selection of candidates for the next election,” she said