Ghafar Baba's grandson tries luck in Pekan
PEKAN, April 28 (Bernama) -- The grandson of former Deputy Prime Minister Tun Ghafar Baba, Mohamad Zahid Mat Arip who is contesting the Pekan parliamentary seat in the 14th general election has described incumbent Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak as a gentleman.
Mohamad Zahid who was Keadilan Youth vice head said he was aware that the UMNO president did not like him contesting in the constituency as they had known each other a long time.
"The PM must not like me contesting here, but in this matter, I see his gentlemanly qualities. We shook hands and spoke as usual, nothing untoward happened (during the nomination process)," he told Bernama when met here today.
The former special officer to an ex-Felda chairman, Mohamad Zahid said he did not choose Pekan to gain popularity but was only obeying the party's instructions to contest in the BN stronghold.
Mohamad Zahid also said he did not mind being labeled a 'parachute' candidate as it could also happen in any party, including UMNO.
"I do not care what people say about me, in fact it is irrelevant to connect me to the Felda issue...I was detained (by the MACC) and released without being connected to any offence...so why should I be afraid."
Mohamad Zahid was detained by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in connection to investigations of alleged mismanagement of assets belonging to Felda Investment Corporation (FIC).
Meanwhile, PAS candidate Capt (rtd) Ahiatudin Daud said he had not lost hope even though this was his third attempt at the parliament seat under the same ticket (PAS).
"I am proud that I am still the PAS choice to contest in Pekan parliamentary seat and I am optimistic that PAS will get much more votes in this GE."
Meanwhile, independent candidate, businessman Datuk Abd Kadir Sainudin said his experience contesting in the Sedili state seat in Johor in GE13 has helped him face the challenge this time.
He said although he would not be carrying out campaigning on a large-scale, he was targeting 'on-the-fence' voters for support.
"There are people who do not like BN, PKR and PAS, so as an independent candidate, I am the best choice for the people of Pekan..rather than spoiling the votes, give them to me," Abd Kadir who is from Johor, said.
-- BERNAMA
