AYER KEROH: Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expects corruption allegations to feature prominently in the Melaka election campaign and has called on the coalition's machinery to counter them.
Zahid, who is also Umno president, said attacks against caretaker Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, BN, Umno and its partners were likely to intensify as campaigning gathered pace.
"I am almost certain the issue of plundering will be raised more frequently," he said at the launch of BN's election machinery at the Melaka International Trade Centre tonight.
He said the campaign would extend beyond the ground to social media, calling on members to use their accounts to respond to allegations against the coalition.
"Our battle is not only on the ground, but online," he added.
Zahid also called on members to publicise the state government's achievements on social media and distribute publications detailing its performance to households across Melaka.
"Our strength is an administrative record that the people can assess. Datuk Rauf's strength also lies in his excellent record of achievement," he said, calling on members to explain the administration's track record and plans.
BN will contest 21 seats in the election, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) will contest the remaining seven under an electoral cooperation agreement.
In the 2021 state election, BN won 21 seats, Pakatan Harapan five and PN two.
Zahid also called on BN members to maintain campaign discipline and refrain from spreading slander.
"We will not resort to slander in our campaign. Let our opponents do so, but it will eventually backfire on them. We will campaign with integrity," he said.
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