KOTA KINABALU, Sept 27 — Barisan Nasional (BN) has submitted the names of its shortlisted candidates for the 17th Sabah state election to the authorities to ensure those representing the coalition have strong integrity.
Its chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said the names of candidates for each Sabah state constituency had been forwarded to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Syariah Court.
“We received between four and five names for each constituency and we carried out the screening process, but this does not only apply to the candidates.
“Perhaps later, we will also conduct screening for state leaders at the constituency or divisional levels,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, at a press conference after officiating the Jelita GiatMARA Extraordinary Women in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) inspiration programme here today.
Also present were Mara chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, who is also Umno secretary-general, Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development and Umno Wanita Chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, as well as Risda honorary adviser and Sabah BN chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
The Sabah State Assembly will automatically dissolve on Nov 11 unless dissolved earlier, paving the way for the state election.
“Winnability (of candidates) will be given priority,” Ahmad Zahid said, adding that the number of seats to be contested by BN in the election would be discussed with Bung Moktar. — Bernama
