Slight problems here and there over BN candidates normal

BAGAN DATUK: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said slight problems “here and there” including in the selection of candidates was something normal each time there was a general election.

The deputy chairman of the Barisan Nasional acknowledged that there were some minor hiccups in Perak BN in preparing its candidates list for the 14th General Election.

"The announcement of candidates has not been made because we are waiting for instructions from the BN headquarters. When the signal is given from the headquarters, it (list) will be handed over to Perak BN chairman (Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir) to make the announcement, "he told a press conference after attending Rela's 46th anniversary celebration at the Perak state-level here.

An English-language daily today reported that internal squabbles were among the factors which was delaying Perak BN in completing its list of candidates.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister and Bagan Datuk MP, said he had gone around the country and found that problems cropping related to G14 in BN were “not as big” as during previous elections.

"This shows the preparedness of the machinery, and that the candidates who will represent BN are well received by the leadership at the grassroots-level, at both parliamentary and state levels," he said.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said BN chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would be finalising the distribution of seats, including that of Wangsa Maju and Bandar Tun Razak.

Ahmad Zahid said he had met with Wangsa Maju Umno Division committee members who expressed dissatisfaction over the decision to hand over the Wangsa Maju parliamentary seat back to MCA.

"In the 13th general election, the seat (Wang Maju) was loaned to Umno (to contest in). MCA wants the seat back.

"I urge everyone to respect the decision made by the BN chairman. I hope that no one acts rashly,"he said, adding that team spirit was crucial to ensure victory for BN. - Bernama