DESPITE the shock of Chua Tian Chang’s disqualification, Batu voters are keen to support the independent candidate backed by the PKR vice-president.

Some 500 Pakatan Harapan supporters thronged a crossroads in Bandar Baru Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, tonight to hear his endorsement of P. Prabakaran, a 22-year old law student, who, just days ago, was a complete unknown.

Batu incumbent Chua, better known as Tian Chua, today saw his legal challenge against the Election Commission over his disqualification thrown out by the Kuala Lumpur High Court.

While many of the PH supporters tonight appeared determined to vote for Prabakaran, whose symbol in the elections is a key, some said they are anxious about what could happen on May 9.

“We don’t know him or his family,” said Devi, a 62-year old housewife who lives in a nearby flat.

“He can change sides. I’m a little scared, but we will still support PKR.”

R. Devan, a 66-year-old pensioner, expects trouble after the elections.

“I’m sure Barisan Nasional will ‘kacau’ (interfere). There’s a 50-50 chance that he may join the other side.

“However, we must at least try to change the government. We can only hope and pray for PKR.”

Hussein, 66, said PKR needs legal guarantees to prevent a defection.

“They need to tie him to an agreement, to make sure he doesn’t jump.

“But this guy is educated. I don’t think he can stand working for BN, so I think, maybe, it’s less likely he would jump.”

Kumar, 55, a businessman and staunch PKR supporter, said “anything is possible”.

“We felt that Tian Chua should have had a back-up candidate, even if you definitely think you can win.

“You never know with these things. You need a spare tyre, even if you think you will never have a problem.

“Politics must be treated like a chess game. You have to think of all the contingencies, and many steps ahead. I just hope we can checkmate BN with this new candidate.”

He is certain that locals will fully back PKR’s decision to support Prabakaran over independent candidate V.M. Panjamothy, who is a former MIC member.

“No matter what, we can’t lay down our arms, surrender and hand them Batu on a silver platter.

“We hope Prabakaran will take up our cause. Whatever happens after the elections, at least, we have done our part as voters.” – May 4, 2018.