Barisan Nasional (BN) may have “dug its own grave” following the coalition’s decision to not field several seasoned candidates in the upcoming 15th General Election in Malaysia.
Associate Professor Dr Azeem Fazwan Ahmad Farouk said there is a possibility that BN’s new candidates, nominated to replace its veteran leaders, especially in Perlis, may lose.
“What (Datuk Seri Ahmad) Zahid (Hamidi) did (in dropping the heavyweights), is risky. It can work for, or against BN, depending on the influence of the candidates who were dropped,” said Azeem.
Ahmad Zahid, who is BN chairman and Umno president, revealed BN’s candidates for GE15 last night.
Those axed were Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, Tan Sri Annuar Musa, Datuk Halimah Sadique, Datuk Seri Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin, Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba, and Tan Sri Noh Omar.
“Look at Perlis. Shahidan and Zahidi’s influences are strong. If these candidates throw their support behind Perikatan Nasional, Perlis is going to fall, possibly to Pas … BN has dug its own grave,” said Azeem.
“Perlis is now a state that has to be watched closely, as the sentiment is that the support is no longer with BN.
“Annuar is also a big name in Ketereh, so is Tajuddin in Pasir Salak, and Noh Omar in Tanjong Karang. We are possibly looking at four to five seats held by these heavyweights to fall from BN’s hands,” he added.
Azeem, who is director of the Centre for Policy Research and International Studies, said it was clear that the power behind the ‘throne’ was Ahmad Zahid, and many of those who had made the cut were “clearly the president’s men”.
However, Azeem said BN’s strategy of fielding younger candidates and new faces, was similar to the tactic adopted by the coalition in the Melaka and Johor state elections.
“It is a gamble that may or may not pay off for Umno and BN, depending on how disgruntled the followers of those who were dropped are.
“This is a different election. The number of voters has gone up tremendously … it is an election that will be very complex,” said Azeem.