Manik Urai By-Election: ‘BN narrowing gap with Pas’
(NST) KUALA KRAI: Deputy Prime Minister and Umno deputy president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin believes that Barisan Nasional is narrowing the gap it has with Pas in terms of support from the people.
He urged party leaders and members to stay close to the people so as to prove wrong all the negative perceptions raised by the opposition, including Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.
"It is time to show that BN is still viable and a fair party that represents people of all races.
"We have hopes but we need commitment, enthusiasm and hard work," he said at the Manik Urai by-election nomination centre at SMK Sultan Yahya Petra (1) here yesterday.
The BN candidate, Kuala Krai Umno youth head Tuan Aziz Tuan Mat, will be up against Kuala Krai Pas treasurer Mohd Fauzi Abdullah on polling day on July 14.
State Umno leader Datuk Mustapa Mohamed said he would monitor the campaigning by BN's machinery and would focus on support from the grassroots.
"We will not be complacent even though this is a good start with a good candidate.
"There will be gatherings and we will go from house to house to bond with voters."
Tuan Aziz, when met after the announcement on the candidates contesting in the by-election, said he wanted to meet as many voters as possible before polling day.
"I will work hard to ensure that BN takes the seat in Manik Urai.
"This constituency is rich in agricultural products and I hope to increase the productivity, besides improving the people's income."
Tuan Aziz said, as the youth leader, he hoped many young voters would turn up to support BN and would give him the opportunity to serve the people.
The by-election is being held following the death of incumbent assemblyman Ismail Yaacob on May 22 after a heart attack.
He won the seat in the 2008 general election after beating BN's Mohamed Zulkifli Omar with a majority of 1, 352 votes.