Kuala lumpur: Ethnic and sub-ethnic factors are among the criteria considered by Barisan Nasional (BN) in selecting candidates to represent the coalition in the upcoming 17th Sabah state election (PRN17), its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. The Deputy Prime Minister stated that the party is currently reviewing the winnability of proposed names and the issues to be highlighted in its election manifesto.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of the WALI (winnable, acceptable, likeable) concept in candidate selection. In addition to the list that has been submitted, ground assessments will also play a role in the final decisions. He mentioned that new and young faces would be featured alongside several experienced incumbents who have shown commitment to their constituencies in past elections.

Ahmad Zahid made these remarks after officiating the closing ceremony of the national-level ‘Konvensyen 152’ at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). He addressed the media re
garding the number of seats BN will contest, stating that this information will be disclosed on nomination day.

Recently, Ahmad Zahid confirmed that BN had submitted its list of potential candidates to ensure that only individuals with high integrity are chosen to represent the coalition. The list of candidates for each state constituency has been sent to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and the Syariah Court for thorough vetting.