The opposition in Sarawak will normally shun Dayak constituencies during a general election - the reasons are obvious. In most cases, the chance to defeat the Barisan Nasional is almost zero. Contesting a rural seat in Sarawak is a very expensive affair and there is no way for the opposition to match the huge resources and machineries of the BN. At best, it will only be a token fight should the opposition decide to enter the race. However, for the coming by-election in Batang Ai, the situation seem to be different. For the first time in a long while, Dayak BN leaders - particular those in Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) - have quietly conceded that it will be tough to retain the seat...Among the reasons were the lack of a strong candidate, mistrust among BN components in the state and the swelling support for the opposition. PKR also has a credible candidate in Nicholas Bawin, who lost to the late Unting in the 2006 state election by a mere 806 votes. (Malaysiakini: Tough for BN to retain Batang Ai, say party insiders)
806 is a slim majority. Will it be the first by-election to say 'bye' to Bee End and 'Welcome PR'?
806 is a slim majority. Will it be the first by-election to say 'bye' to Bee End and 'Welcome PR'?
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