Kedah is open to any political figure wishing to contest in the state elections, including former Umno Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin.
Kedah Menteri Besar and state Perikatan Nasional chairman Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor stated that Malaysia’s democratic system allows anyone the freedom to contest in any state.
Speaking after attending a festive gathering in Alor Setar today, the Menteri Besar noted that Kedah welcomes all individuals who wish to participate in the upcoming polls.
He remarked that the ultimate decision rests with the voters of the state to determine their preferred representatives.
Khairy Jamaluddin and local ties
Regarding the possibility of Khairy Jamaluddin contesting in the state, the Menteri Besar saw no issue with the prospect.
He pointed out that the former Health Minister has family ties to the state through his mother and possesses an understanding of the local culture.
The Menteri Besar reiterated that Kedah serves as an open field where the democratic process is respected.
He stressed that in a free country, political participation is not restricted by geography, and he personally welcomes any individual who chooses to stand for election in Kedah.
Response to political resurgence calls
The remarks were made in response to suggestions from within Umno that a prominent figure like Khairy Jamaluddin is necessary to spearhead a political resurgence in Kedah.
Local youth leaders had previously suggested that his leadership style and ideology could potentially shift the mindset of the electorate.
This development follows the recent news that several former leaders, including Khairy Jamaluddin and former Umno Vice President Hishammuddin Hussein, were among thousands of members accepted back into the party.
The move has sparked discussions regarding the future political landscape of the northern state.
