THERE is no need to review the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate line-up for the coming general election after the Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional unveiled their lists yesterday, Anwar Ibrahim said.

The PH chairman said as things stood, the coalition’s line-up was final.

“As it stands, that (PH candidates’ list) is done. But, of course, I will consult DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu, in case (they want to revise).

“But I don’t see that there are going to be some minor changes in light of the announcement by BN,” Anwar was quoted as saying after the coalition launched its manifesto in Klang today.

His comments came after PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramil said the party would study the feedback from Sungai Buloh voters after Umno nominated caretaker health minister Khairy Jamaluddin to stand in the constituency.

“I will discuss with Anwar Ibrahim regarding the feedback from voters in Sungai Buloh on our candidate. I appreciate every comment.

“The final decision is with the president,” Rafizi said in a tweet today.

PKR has named Ramanan Ramakrishanan, a former MIC treasurer, to stand in the constituency. Apart from the new challenge from Umno, the decision has caused divisions locally.

Twitter users have echoed these divisions, asking why PKR is replacing veteran R. Sivarasa.

He has been an MP since 2008, but has been left out this time around.

Social media users noted Sivarasa’s track record, saying he was a progressive and dedicated lawmaker.

Umno has nominated Khairy, who was forced out of his Rembau seat by deputy president Mohamad Hasan.

Despite PKR’s apparent panic, observers have commented that Umno’s move is aimed at putting Khairy in the political deep freeze with president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi trying to cement his grip on the party. – November 2, 2022.