Zahid Calls for Fair Campaign Environment, Urges Rivals Not to Obstruct BN’s Election Activities in Johor
BATU PAHAT: UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged political rivals to allow campaigning for the Johor state election to proceed fairly, saying democratic competition should be decided by voters rather than restrictions placed on opposing parties.
Speaking during the launch of Barisan Nasional’s election machinery for the Parit Yaani and Parit Raja state constituencies, Ahmad Zahid said every political party contesting the election should enjoy equal opportunities to reach voters and present their respective policies throughout the campaign period.
He stressed that elections should be conducted in a spirit of healthy competition where political parties compete through ideas, leadership and public confidence instead of administrative or operational obstacles.
“If we are contesting an election, then let us compete openly and professionally. Allow every party to campaign freely and let the people determine the outcome through the ballot box.
“There should be no unnecessary attempts to obstruct campaign activities or create difficulties for opposing parties. A fair contest benefits democracy as a whole,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid claimed that BN had encountered several challenges during its campaign, including difficulties accessing certain campaign locations as well as alleged restrictions affecting some of the coalition’s online campaign content and social media activities.
He argued that such situations should not occur because all political parties are entitled to campaign freely provided they comply with election laws and regulations.
According to him, public confidence is earned through direct engagement with voters rather than by limiting an opponent’s ability to communicate.
The Deputy Prime Minister also reaffirmed UMNO and BN’s commitment to supporting the Unity Government until the end of its current term despite ongoing state election campaigns.
He said the coalition remained focused on ensuring political stability, implementing development programmes and delivering policies that benefit Malaysians.
“Our commitment to the Unity Government remains unchanged because national stability and the people’s welfare continue to be our priority even while state elections are taking place,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid further reminded BN members and supporters to conduct themselves professionally throughout the campaign period by avoiding unnecessary provocation or confrontational behaviour.
He said mature political conduct would demonstrate the coalition’s commitment to responsible leadership while allowing voters to evaluate competing political platforms objectively.
Reflecting on UMNO’s history, Ahmad Zahid noted that the party was established through constitutional and institutional processes rather than street movements, adding that BN intends to continue promoting moderation, political stability and inclusive development.
He encouraged party members to focus their efforts on explaining BN’s policies, achievements and future plans for Johor instead of becoming distracted by political provocations.
According to Ahmad Zahid, the ultimate verdict belongs to the electorate, making it essential for every party to respect democratic principles and allow voters to decide the state’s future through a free, peaceful and transparent electoral process.
