REMBAU: Umno today launched its election machinery in preparation for a possible Rantau state legislative assembly by-election
On May 23, PKR candidate Dr S. Streram submitted an election petition to nullify the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to declare former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan the winner of the Rantau state seat in the14th General Election (GE14).
Dr Streram had named Mohamad as the first respondent and the EC’s returning officer, Amino Agos Suyub, and the commission as the second and third respondents, respectively.
Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he expected the court to rule on the petition next week.
“We are not trying to step on the court’s duty, but if there will be no by-election, then we are grateful,” he said after a meet and greet session with Umno leaders in Rantau here, today.
“Although there has been no decision on the petition so far, we are prepared to face any possibilities.
“We feel that today is the best time to launch the machinery since Umno Rembau grassroots are all here today.”
“I will stay in Rantau during the by-election to help Tok Mat (Mohamad) defend the seat.
“I am convinced that the rebirth of Umno will begin in this state.”
Zahid said Rembau member of parliament Khairy Jamaluddin, who held the shadow Finance Ministry portfolio, would table the opposition’s Alternative Budget 2019 at Dewan Rakyat, next Monday.