TAPAH COMES ALIVE FOR AYER KUNING NOMINATION DAY

TAPAH, April 12 (Bernama) -- The usually calm town of Tapah sprang to life this morning, bustling with energy as political leaders and enthusiastic supporters filled the streets for the nomination of candidates for the Ayer Kuning state seat here today.

Dewan Merdeka, the focal point of the nomination process, was surrounded by waves of party colours, chants, and banners as supporters rallied behind their respective candidates.

Under clear skies and a festive atmosphere, they began arriving as early as 7am, turning the quiet Saturday into a vibrant political celebration.

Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir, who is also the Tapah UMNO division secretary, arrived at 7.08 am, dressed in a striking blue baju Melayu complete with sampin, drawing cheers from the crowd of BN lsupporters.

He was accompanied by top party leaders, including BN chairman and UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Perak BN chairman Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, and UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

Also present were leaders from the Unity Government’s component parties, including Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Perak DAP chairman Nga Kor Ming.

Meanwhile, Perikatan Nasional (PN) candidate Abd Muhaimin Malek, who chairs PN Tapah, arrived accompanied by senior coalition figures, including PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man and Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin and supporters clad in the coalition’s signature colours.

The Election Commission has set polling day for the Ayer Kuning by-election on April 26, with early voting on April 22.

The by-election was called following the death of incumbent Ishsham Shahrudin on Feb 22.

-- BERNAMA