Khir sees tough elections for BN - The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: The elections will be difficult for the Barisan Nasional, says Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo.

“It looks easy, but it is a difficult one,” he said, adding that this was because people were reserved and did not openly show who they would support.

“They look at candidates now, and 60% to 70% would decide based on the quality of the candidates.”

Dr Mohamad Khir was speaking to reporters yesterday after witnessing the signing ceremony between New Era College and Vintage Heights at Wisma MCA here.

Asked whether the MIC would be a liability to the Barisan, Dr Mohamad Khir said it would not.

Dr Mohamad Khir also said he had submitted the state's list of candidates to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

[From http://thestar.com.my/election/story.asp?file=/2008/2/20/election2008/20380518&sec=Election2008]

Po Kuan sticking to her guns - The Star

IPOH: Incumbent Batu Gajah MP Fong Po Kuan is sticking fast to her decision not to contest in the general election.

In her blog (pokuan.blogsome.com), Fong said it was a tough decision.

“I am unable to reconsider my decision of not to contest in this coming 12th General Election. I am sorry if I have disappointed you. I do hope you all will try to understand,” she said in her comments posted yesterday at 3.14pm.

She started her posting with an apology and stated she was unable to answer all calls, reply messages, e-mails and comments.

“I do appreciate your views, criticisms, supports and encouragement,” she said.

[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/2/20/nation/20379532&sec=nation]