IPOH, 10 Feb 2009: Pakatan Rakyat has not finalised its candidate for the Bukit Gantang parliamentary seat by-election.
This is despite Sitiawan assemblyperson Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham’s suggestion yesterday, that (former Perak menteri besar) Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin contest the seat.
Touching on the suggestion, Nizar told a press conference today, it was too soon for Pakatan Rakyat to decide, and that it must be discussed at its central and state level meeting.
“I think that’s too early. The question does not arise because we have other urgent priorities now. There are many other potential candidates whom we have to consider.
“I am not from the area, so let me just fulfil my obligations as menteri besar because that is more required at the moment,” Nizar said at the Perak Menteri Besar’s residence.
He believed that the by-election would be a firm indicator on Perakian sentiments, regarding their support for Pakatan Rakyat or Barisan Nasional (BN).
“To a certain extent, it will bring a scenario of a referendum, where Perakians will give their verdict on that particular day that will support Pakatan Rakyat. I think you can interpret it in that manner.
“Judging by the overwhelming support Perakians have given to the legitimate government they have chosen for the past 10 months, it will be an indication of their (Perakian) continued support.
“They will only repeat (their votes) but this time, they will certainly give us (Pakatan Rakyat) an overwhelming majority and victory, as well,” said Nizar.
In the 2008 General Election, Roslan took the Bukit Gantang seat by beating Umno treasurer Datuk Abdul Azim Zabidi and Independent candidate Mohganan P Manikam.
Roslan bagged 20,015 votes against Azim’s 18,449, while the independent lost his deposit with just 872 votes. — Bernama
