Johor polls not the be-all, end-all, BN’s election hopefuls told

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional (BN) members who are not fielded as candidates in the Johor state election must remain steadfast with the coalition, says state BN chief Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

Onn Hafiz said contesting elections should not be their ultimate goal in politics, adding that their main objective should be serving the people, not attaining positions, Bernama reported.

“Not being selected (as candidates) is not the end. There may be other responsibilities ahead as MPs, and some may serve in the party machinery, as there are limited seats.

“Every other party will face similar challenges, but the important thing is that we must remain steadfast in the party’s struggle, with the ultimate objective of serving the people,” the menteri besar was quoted as saying.

Yesterday, Umno Supreme Council member Puad Zarkashi confirmed that he would not defend his Rengit seat in the July 11 polls, citing his age.

This followed reports that Johor BN would drop several senior figures in the state polls, including Puad and former menteri besar Hasni Mohammad, who was most recently the Benut assemblyman.

Onn Hafiz said BN was about 80% done with selecting its candidates, though nothing would be set in stone until they receive their letters of appointment as candidates from coalition chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Johor Umno chief said BN’s candidate selection criteria cover diverse professional backgrounds, and are not limited to a particular age group.

“The candidate must be a local, known in the constituency, and acceptable to the community. This is what a winnable, acceptable, and likeable candidate is.

“For me, age is not the main factor, whether young or old. A candidate must be capable of serving the people. It is no use being young and energetic if he is unable to serve the people,” he said.

The Johor polls will be held on July 11, while nominations have been set for June 27.