BATU independent candidate P. Prabakaran, who has aligned himself with PKR, last night insisted that he will not join Barisan Nasional should he win the seat.

Voters in Batu had expressed concern that the 22-year-old might join BN if he wins the parliamentary seat in the May 9 polls.

In his first press conference after the announcement that he will champion the Pakatan Harapan cause, Prabakaran gave an assurance that he will join PKR after the elections.

“My chances in the Batu contest are good after the backing by PKR,” said the law student.

“I’m also happy to work with Tian Chua and develop a platform for the youth.”

The seat will see a four-cornered fight between Gerakan’s Dr Dominic Lau, Azhar Yahya (PAS), and independents Prabakaran and V.M. Panjamothy.

Prabakaran said the reason he agreed to work with PKR is because his objectives are the same as the party’s.

“I entered this arena because I want to raise the voice of the youth.

“Most of those in Parliament are over 50 years old. We need younger voices.”

He said he will be able to juggle his duties as a lawmaker and his studies, should he win.

“I will balance both, as I have to be an example to the youth.”

He said his parents and family friends had forked out the money for him to contest.

Batu incumbent Chua Tian Chang, better known as Tian Chua, said it is “absolutely clear” that the candidate endorsed by PKR is one who follows and subscribes to the principles of PH.

“I know the parents very well. In fact, they are voters, and they have voted for me in the last two elections.

“So, I know Praba. This is the first time he is taking part in politics.”

Chua said Prabakaran had originally intended to participate as an experiment, “but now, the task is much bigger as he has to take the whole challenge seriously to ensure that we win this seat”.

“If he wins, he does not have experience as an MP. I will take him as my student and guide him.”

The two-term Batu MP will not be defending the seat after he was disqualified on nomination day. His appeal to the Kuala Lumpur High Court was dismissed yesterday, and he was advised to file his suit by way of an election petition. – May 5, 2018.