UMNO to Shortlist Six Candidates for Ayer Kuning State By-Election
Perak UMNO chairman Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad has announced that six candidates from the Tapah UMNO Division have been shortlisted for the UMNO Supreme Council’s consideration to contest the upcoming Ayer Kuning state by-election.
The list includes the division’s deputy chief, vice-chief, treasurer, Wanita’s chief, youth chief, and Puteri’s chief. According to Saarani, the selection criteria for candidates in this by-election align with those outlined by UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, namely the ‘wali’ – winnable, acceptable, and likeable.
"We have candidates who meet the criteria, and I am confident that once we announce our candidate, he (or she) will receive full support. Our commitment remains that, out of the eight names submitted, only one will be chosen, while the rest will rally behind the chosen candidate," Saarani said.
The by-election was triggered by the passing of incumbent Ishsam Shahruddin, who died of a fatal heart attack on February 22. Ishsam was the Tapah Umno division chief since 2018 and won the Ayer Kuning seat in the 15th General Election in November 2022 with a majority of 2,213 votes.
Selection Process
According to Clause 15.13.1 of the party’s constitution, the divisional UMNO committee is responsible for proposing candidates, but the final decision rests with the Supreme Council and the party president. Saarani was given the mandate to propose eight candidates from the Tapah UMNO Division, but two individuals informed him via WhatsApp of their decision to withdraw, leaving six names remaining.
Timeline
- The by-election must be held within 60 days, as per EC regulations.
- The party’s decision is expected to be made soon, and the candidate will be announced.
- The by-election will be a significant contest, with the outcome likely to impact the political landscape in Perak.
Conclusion
The shortlisting of six candidates from the Tapah UMNO Division for the Ayer Kuning state by-election is a significant development in the political landscape of Perak. The candidates will have to meet the selection criteria set by the UMNO president, which includes being winnable, acceptable, and likeable. The by-election is expected to be a closely contested one, and the outcome will be closely watched by political observers.
FAQs
- Who are the six shortlisted candidates?
The shortlisted candidates are the division’s deputy chief, vice-chief, treasurer, Wanita’s chief, youth chief, and Puteri’s chief. - What is the selection criteria for the candidates?
The selection criteria for candidates in this by-election align with those outlined by UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, namely the ‘wali’ – winnable, acceptable, and likeable. - When is the by-election expected to be held?
The by-election must be held within 60 days, as per EC regulations.