Kelantan Umno has admitted that it has yet to regain support from voters to lead the state, says its chairman, Ahmad Jazlan Yaakub.
According to a Harian Metro report, Jazlan said although the party has presented various proposals, including a comprehensive manifesto, the people have yet to support them.
He added that Umno has provided the best possible services to the people of Kelantan even while in the opposition.
“Even when the state government makes mistakes, the people of Kelantan continue to support them,” he told reporters after attending a moreh event in Kota Bharu last night.
Jazlan said Kelantan’s economy is supported by both the federal government and the private sector.
Although state-generated growth remains weak, the people continue to accept it, he added.
“So, to be frank, Umno still has not won the hearts of the people to lead Kelantan. The situation may change in a year from now or during the next election,” he said.
Jazlan said while Umno may not win a large number of seats in the next state election, it should at least be given the mandate to serve in some constituencies.
“People also need to understand that in a state or country, there cannot be absolute power. There must be checks and balances. Let us play that role,” he said.
Umno currently holds no parliamentary and state seats in Kelantan. The state was under Barisan Nasional rule between 1978 and 1990, but PAS regained full control in the 1990 general election.
The state has remained under PAS or Perikatan Nasional since then.
