MELAKA: Perikatan Nasional (PN) and Pas leaders have defended their electoral cooperation with Barisan Nasional (BN), dismissing criticism that the partnership is fragile or one-sided.
Melaka Pas chairman Zulkifli Ismail dismissed remarks by Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, who claimed that previous ties between Umno and Pas had never lasted more than three years.
“That is just the view of people who do not want to see this unity work,” Zulkifli said at a press conference to present the aspirations of PN candidates for the 16th Melaka election.
“Those of us working on the ground are not planning for three years (only). We want to make sure this partnership lasts for good.”
Zulkifli also rejected claims that Umno was playing both sides, describing them as unfair attacks intended to score political points.
With the campaign entering its final days, he said the coalition was focusing on rallies across all 28 state constituencies, culminating in a prayer gathering and a final rally before polling day.
Tangga Batu member of parliament and PN Melaka election director Bakri Jamaluddin dismissed claims that PN was being sidelined by BN under the ‘Muafakat Melaka’ banner.
“Working together means give and take. It does not mean being bullied,” he said.
“We have put together a joint manifesto with six main areas and 113 initiatives, including plans for the first 100 days, one year and five years to bring jobs and investment to Melaka.
“We are looking at the bigger picture for stability here and across the country,” he added.
PN Bemban candidate Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub said relations among party members on the ground went beyond party affiliations.
“Our relationship is not based on party lines, but on sincerity and doing what is right. That is why it is easy to work together,” he said, adding that the team would continue working hard until polling day.