Unseen candidate a headache for BN in Kuala Kangsar

KUALA KANGSAR: It may become a uphill task for Barisan Nasional (BN) coalitions leaders and members to explain to voters why their candidate Datin Mastura Mohd Yazid is not campaigning nor making an appearance.
Although it has been explained by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi that Mastura, the widow of former Kuala Kangsar MP Datuk Wan Mohammad Khair-il Anuar Wan Ahmad is observing "iddah" (mourning), voters would still want to see her and know whether she can be their leader.
Eyebrows are being raised with news that she will not be present on nomination day to submit her papers.
This has sparked further doubts as to her suitability as a candidate as many are of the opinion that BN is fielding her in the hope of getting sympathetic votes.
Whatever it is, Ahmad Zahid has openly said BN is going as an underdog in the by-election not only in Kuala Kangsar but also in Sungai Besar.
While political parties are already in full gear to go on the ground to woo voters, the Royal Town of Kuala Kangsar will soon see a sea of flags, bunting, banners and posters of political parties contesting in the parliamentary by-election .
On the ground, the sentiments are that whoever is the candidate should carry the legacy of Wan Mohammad who has become popular among the constituents.
That could be the reason why the constituents preferred to have a local candidate.
Kuala Kangsar Umno division acting chief Mohamad Kamil Shafie said they will support whoever the leadership nominates and will work to ensure BN's victory.
On the opposition front, PAS has confirmed it will field its candidate as the seat has been traditionally contested by the party.
Perak PAS commissioner Razman Zakaria said: "We have been fielding candidates in Kuala Kangsar and (Sungai Besar) all the way and there is no turning back."
Recently Perak DAP chairman Nga Kor Ming hit out at PAS on its refusal to avoid a multi-cornered contest in the two constituencies.
Sungai Besar MP and Plantation Industries and Commodities deputy minister Datuk Noriah Kasnon and Wan Mohammad Khair-il Anuar were among six people killed in a helicopter crash in Sebuyau, Sarawak on May 5.
Amanah has also confirmed it is contesting in the Kuala Kangsar constituency.