All political parties contesting in the Negri Sembilan state election should focus on positive campaigning and avoid making arrogant statements, said DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke.
Loke said the outcome of the election would ultimately be determined by voters, who have the right to decide the future of candidates and parties based on their own judgement.
“There is no need for us, as partners in the Cabinet, to be arrogant. We should campaign positively.
“Whether someone wins or loses is decided by the people because voters are the ones who will make the final decision,” he told reporters after a walkabout at the Titi morning market.
Loke also responded to remarks by Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, saying local residents were more aware of the situation in their own constituencies.
He questioned Zahid’s claim that certain areas lacked development, pointing out that the Chennah state constituency is part of the Jelebu parliamentary constituency.
“Who represents Jelebu? There is no need to be arrogant,” he said.
Zahid had earlier said that BN could regain control of Negri Sembilan if it managed to win the Chennah and Linggi state seats, where Loke and Negri Sembilan Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun are contesting.
On development in Chennah, Loke said the rural constituency had received various improvements and infrastructure upgrades aimed at benefiting local residents.
He added that development efforts involved shared responsibility as Chennah falls under the Jelebu parliamentary area.
Loke said he would continue engaging with voters from all communities, including Malays, Chinese, Indians and Orang Asli, while seeking support for PH to continue governing.
Meanwhile, Loke rejected claims suggesting that BN and Perikatan Nasional (PN) had secured a combined 58 per cent vote share in Chennah during the 15th General Election, describing the figures as inaccurate.
He said he had consistently received more than 50 per cent of the votes since becoming the elected representative in 2013.
Commenting on Chennah being regarded as one of the election’s closely watched seats, Loke said intense competition was normal during any election.
He added that PH would continue campaigning calmly and adapt its approach through village meetings and engagements with residents during the remaining campaign period.
