In a strategic move by the Umno Supreme Council, Datuk Seri Ahmad Said, the Terengganu Umno chief, has been appointed as Barisan Nasional's (BN) election machinery director for the forthcoming Kemaman by-election. The decision was confirmed by party secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, although the identity of the candidate for the by-election remains shrouded in secrecy and will be unveiled at a later date.
During a press conference held on October 20, Asyraf responded to the eager inquiries of reporters regarding Umno's choice for the by-election candidate, revealing, "It was not discussed during the meeting." He also added, "I am only the secretary-general. I can't give any hints."
Ahmad Said's selection comes in the wake of the significant political upheaval in Terengganu, where all 32 Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates suffered defeat in the recent state election, resulting in widespread calls for accountability and reform within the party.
One of the vocal critics of Ahmad Said's leadership, Kemaman Umno's deputy chief, Datuk Wan Ahmad Nizam Wan Abdul Hamid, placed the blame for the sweeping defeat squarely on Ahmad's shoulders. In the aftermath of the election, Wan Ahmad asserted that Ahmad Said, who had served as the head of the Kemaman division for an impressive 23 years, had overstayed his welcome and needed to take responsibility for the election loss.
The announcement of the Kemaman by-election has ignited political fervor and a renewed sense of urgency within BN, as the Election Commission (EC) has scheduled polling day for December 2. Nomination day has been set for November 18, while early voting will take place on November 28.
The Kemaman by-election was called in response to a momentous ruling by the Terengganu Elections Court on September 26. The court decision invalidated the victory of PAS candidate Che Alias Hamid in the 15th general election (GE15).
In the previous GE15, which took place in November of the previous year, Che Alias had clinched the seat in a fiercely contested four-cornered battle. The contenders included Ahmad of BN, Hasuni Sudin of Pakatan Harapan, and Rosli Ab Ghani of Pejuang. The nullification of Che Alias Hamid's victory has rekindled the electoral spirit in Kemaman, prompting the need for fresh candidates and a reinvigorated strategy.
As the newly appointed election machinery director for BN in the Kemaman by-election, Datuk Seri Ahmad Said faces a challenging task. Not only must he navigate the dynamics of a rapidly evolving political landscape, but he must also lead his party to victory in a constituency that has historically been a battleground for political contenders. This high-stakes election could have far-reaching implications for the political future of BN and the broader Malaysian political landscape.
In the run-up to the Kemaman by-election, all eyes are now on BN as they prepare to unveil their chosen candidate. The secrecy surrounding this crucial decision only intensifies the anticipation and speculation, creating an atmosphere of heightened excitement and uncertainty in the Malaysian political arena.
It remains to be seen whether Ahmad Said, who previously served as the Terengganu menteri besar, can rise to the occasion and steer BN to victory in Kemaman. With the political winds blowing in unpredictable directions, the Kemaman by-election promises to be a fascinating and pivotal chapter in the ongoing story of Malaysian politics. All Malaysians, political enthusiasts, and observers will be closely watching as this electoral drama unfolds, awaiting the announcement of the chosen candidate who will carry the hopes and aspirations of Barisan Nasional into the contest.
Reference: Ahmad Said is BN’s election machinery director for Kemaman polls, says Asyraf Wajdi | Malay Mail
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