THE DEBATE CONTINUES...
Voters still deciding which candidate can better serve them and solve issues
ONE of the points often raised by political leaders in this by-election is whether to pick a candidate with ties to the ruling party, or one who is a vocal opposition.
As it is generally accepted that the contest for Semenyih is a straight fight between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional, debate, however, continues over which candidate, each from a major political brand, can better serve the people.
Issues affecting locals include traffic congestion, inadequate medical facilities, cost of living, flash floods and irregular waste collection system. They have been around for quite some time that voters appear to be indifferent to which candidate they should vote for.
The issues have dominated coffee shop talk and conversations with voters.
“If I pick someone from the ruling party, the assemblyman may have better rapport with the state government in terms of getting aid and services for us.
“But there is the risk of being taken for granted. Many of the local issues have yet to be resolved since BN was removed from the state administration," said retiree Ho Chee Siong, 57.
Ho represents a segment of fence-sitters, whose voting pattern is determined by policies and candidates’ strategies in convincing the electorate.
Some believe that regardless of political affiliation, a strong political will is the most important trait in a candidate.
“A track record is important, but so is a strong candidate.
“It means that the person must have a strong conviction and political will. We do not need a pushover,” said stall operator Ali Abdul, 45.
With that said, how did each party fare in the first leg of the race?
Over the past few days, PH’s Muhammad Aiman Zainali and BN’s Zakaria Hanafi have made strides in their campaigning efforts.
Aiman, whose first foray into politics was criticised over his “quiet” persona, appeared to be more confident before the public and media.
While he is no seasoned politician, the 30-year-old is now used to answering tough questions (for a newbie) and shows substance in his replies during interview sessions.
“I am not perturbed by what netizens say about me,” Aiman said yesterday.
He even gained some brownie points from veteran voters.
“I like him. He likes to smile. He introduced himself and smiled. I think he speaks only when necessary. I hope he can do more if he is elected,” said Ahmad Kasmani, 75.
As for Zakaria, he believes that BN is gaining traction among young voters unlike during the run-up to the 14th General Election.
“Back then, they turned away from us or refused to shake hands. But now they are excited to meet the people from BN. It shows that we are gaining traction,” Zakaria said at BN’s command centre recently.
There may be some truth to Zakaria’s testimony — several youths, when met in villages, described the BN candidate as a “fatherly figure”.
“I’ve never met him. But when he talks, he reminds me of my father. He looks like a person whom you can talk to about your problems,” said factory worker Jihan Mohamad, 25.
It is too early to gauge the rate of support for each party. As politics remains fluid, so are the dynamics of voting patterns.
Some observers believe PH and BN are standing on a level playing field. Others believe PH holds a slim lead due to the homeground factor.
But there is one week left before voters can decide.