MELAKA: Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh as the coalition’s candidate for a second term as Melaka Chief Minister following its two-thirds majority victory in the state election.
Zahid said the mandate reflected the people’s continued confidence in BN and Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) track record, political stability and development agenda.
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“The two-thirds majority reflects the people’s continued confidence in BN and PN’s track record, political stability and development agenda,” he said in his victory speech here tonight.
He described the victory, which marked the coalition’s third consecutive electoral success, as a responsibility to be accepted with gratitude and humility rather than an opportunity to boast.
“Our third consecutive victory is not a reason for us to be boastful, but a responsibility we accept with gratitude and humility,” he said.
He said the mandate carried significant responsibility for the coalition to fulfil its manifesto promises and provide the best possible service to all Melakans, regardless of race, religion or background.
Zahid also said the election had once again demonstrated that political cooperation between BN and PN was gaining wider acceptance among voters.
He congratulated Ab Rauf, the BN leadership and all candidates entrusted with the people’s mandate, while thanking Friends of Barisan Nasional, the party’s election machinery in Melaka and other states, non-governmental organisations and supporters nationwide for their contributions to the campaign.
He also urged the people to put past differences aside and work together towards the state’s continued development.
Describing the victory as a renewed source of motivation, Zahid said BN would strengthen its ranks, counter allegations by political opponents and remain steadfast in its political struggle.
He expressed hope that the “blue wave” would spread nationwide, allowing the people to choose a government capable of driving the country forward.
Zahid said the official letter nominating Ab Rauf would be submitted to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Melaka tonight.
Ab Rauf is set to take his oath of office as Chief Minister on Sunday at 11am at the Office of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka in Ayer Keroh.
