MELAKA: Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) police report against a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate was a legitimate step to seek an investigation, rather than a desperate attempt to win votes as claimed by Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari.
He said the BN chairman’s remarks did little to address concerns over the alleged use of government premises and machinery for campaigning during the Melaka state election.
Adly said the presence of ministers at certain programmes did not automatically resolve questions over whether public facilities had been used to benefit election candidates.
“Filing a police report is a legitimate channel to seek an investigation, not an excuse to belittle those who raise concerns.
“PH is not pre-empting the outcome of any investigation, but BN should also not downplay an issue that has yet to be resolved.
“Assistance to the people must continue through clear procedures and remain free from campaign interests,” he told a press conference at the PH main operations room today.
Previously, Ahmad Zahid had described allegations of government machinery being misused in the Rim state constituency as a desperate attempt by certain quarters to win the election.
He also said he did not consider the matter a problem, pointing out that other parties had likewise organised programmes attended by ministers and deputy ministers.
Earlier, PH had urged the Election Commission (EC) to investigate allegations of inducements involving the distribution of food baskets in conjunction with Deepavali in the constituency, as well as claims that government premises and machinery had been used for campaigning.
Separately, Adly called on BN to clarify the status of 55 development projects which were reportedly yet to begin as at June 2025.
He said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh’s explanation that some of the projects had been inherited from the previous administration did not address concerns over their current progress.
“The 55 projects accounted for nearly 23% of the 241 projects announced at the time.
“If they have been implemented, present their progress. If they remain delayed, explain the reasons and the steps being taken to resolve the matter,” he said.
Adly also questioned the Machap Jaya BN candidate’s decision to decline a debate, citing a preference to continue working.
“The excuse is unconvincing because answering questions and defending one’s track record are also part of a people’s representative’s responsibilities.
“The people want leaders who can deliver and are willing to be held accountable,” he said.
