‘YOUNG CANDIDATES KEY TO VICTORY’
They can attract votes from youth, say analysts
THE selection of young and popular candidates who have worked hard to endear themselves to voters, especially first-time voters, is key to victory for any political party in the 14th General Election (GE14).
Universiti Utara Malaysia political analyst Prof Dr Noor Sulastry Yurni Ahmad said the “candidate factor” was important in determining a party’s success.
“However, the candidate has to be one who is familiar to younger voters and has worked hard to approach them before being named a candidate.
“Having a young candidate is an advantage for any party to win,” she told the New Straits Times Press.
Noor Sulastry said selecting young candidates must be made based on the candidates’ suitability and credibility, as not everyone possessed the qualities to become a candidate, much less a leader.
On speculation that votes during the 14th General Election would depend on one’s popularity on social media, namely Facebook and WhatsApp, Noor Sulastry said this was not a new trend as it was employed in the 2008 and 2013 general elections.
“The strategy of attracting voters through social media is being used by all parties as it is fast, simple and cost-efficient.
“But, what we have to focus on is the ethical use of social media.”
Universiti Malaya political analyst Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said Barisan Nasional had to ensure that the new faces it lined up in GE14 were accepted among voters in the constituencies.
“There is no use in having a fresh face if he or she does not meet the needs of the voters, is a parachute candidate or one who does not have blessings of the grassroots members.
“BN’s chances of winning will be affected if the new faces are not wanted by local voters.
“There is a possibility of sabotage within the party if this happens.”
He said placing young candidates could attract votes in areas where the elected representatives had served for more than three terms.
Young voters, he added, perceived new candidates as a having better understanding of their needs and aspirations.
“Candidates who have served for too long in their constituencies are viewed as being unable to tap into the pulse of younger voters. The combination of old and new is important.
“However, note that long-serving elected representatives who have been proven to be able to resolve their constituents’ problems and serve the people will remain relevant.”