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KUALA LUMPUR – Pejuang leader Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the party will not be contesting in the upcoming Melaka elections.
During a press conference today, the former prime minister said the party considers the polls to be nothing more than a political ploy.
“We think that all of this is just a political game, it is obvious that they are not taking the matter seriously.
“We joined politics to improve the people’s conditions, to give the people a better life. These people (politicians), however, are in politics to gain positions and when they see a chance to rise up the ranks, they will make others fall in the hopes of becoming government,” Dr Mahathir said.
He further asserted that Pejuang thinks it is not the right time to hold an election as the country is still in the midst of fighting a pandemic.
Referring to the Sabah state election in September last year which triggered a new wave of Covid-19 infections across the country, Dr Mahathir expressed his concern and disapproval that another election is being held now.
“Even if there are orders against public gatherings, I believe that they (politicians) will still go campaigning and ignore the restrictions,” he said.
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin had announced yesterday that activities, gatherings or social events related to the Melaka election will not be allowed till November 27.
The Election Commission (EC) has set November 20 as polling day for the state election and November 8 for nomination, giving parties 12 days to campaign. Early voters can cast their ballots on November 16.
Melaka Governor Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam dissolved the state assembly on October 4 after four assemblymen had withdrawn their support for Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali of Umno.
Dr Mahathir said a state assembly sitting should have been held earlier to discuss issues and avoid the fall of the Melaka government.
“Although there are no laws prohibiting party-hopping, politicians should prioritise serving the nation and remember that they were voted in by the people,” he said, adding that there is “no use” in having a state election as even if a new government is elected, citizens will not gain any benefits.
“Pejuang refuses to have any part in this. Those contesting in the elections are doing so not for the betterment of the people, but to ensure that their pockets remain lined.” – The Vibes, October 25, 2021