Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has dismissed the allegation of an “extraordinary police presence” at Perikatan Nasional campaign activities as a political tactic aimed at causing confusion. The Deputy Prime Minister responded to a statement made by PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, who claimed that there was an “extraordinary attendance” of authorities monitoring the coalition’s campaigns in Pelangai. The state seat in the by-election has been filled by Kasim Samat.
Ahmad Zahid emphasized that the police are highly professional and always strive to accommodate any political party or candidate in their campaigns. He urged against questioning the professionalism of the law enforcement agencies, particularly the police. The Deputy Prime Minister made these remarks during a press conference held at Felda Chemomoi in Bentong, Pahang on September 30, as reported by MalaysiaGazette.com.
Takiyuddin had previously claimed on September 29 that the “extraordinary police presence” at Perikatan campaigns in Pelangai had created an atmosphere of unease among the locals. He also alleged that the police’s presence to monitor Kasim’s activities, such as walkabouts and house-to-house visits, had made the locals hesitant to engage with the candidate. The Pelangai by-election will witness a three-cornered fight among Kasim, Barisan Nasional candidate Datuk Amizar Abu Adam, and Independent candidate Haslihelmy DM Zulhasli.
The polling day has been set for October 7, with early voting taking place on October 3. The by-election was scheduled following the demise of Umno assemblyman Datuk Seri Johari Harun, who lost his life in the Elmina plane crash on August 17. In the 15th General Election, Johari emerged victorious with a majority of 4,048 votes, surpassing Kasim, Pakatan Harapan’s Ahmed Wafiuddin Shamsuri, and Isa Ahmad of Pejuang.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
