Analysis: Harapan’s uphill battle to defend Kuala Kubu Baharu

The unveiling of Pakatan Harapan and Perikatan Nasional candidates for the upcoming Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election has ended speculation on potential contenders in the race.

Although there were other ideas on the table, both camps ultimately presented their most promising strategies, aiming to win the by-election by appealing to their respective support bases.

Previously, rumours swirled that Harapan could field Hulu Selangor Municipal Council (MPHS) councillor Saripah Bakar from DAP as a candidate to win over Malay voters. On the other side, Gerakan repeatedly appealed for another opportunity to contest the seat.

In the end, Harapan named Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming’s press secretary, Pang Sock Tao, as the coalition’s candidate.

On the following night, on April 25, PN announced that Bersatu’s acting Hulu Selangor division chief Khairul Azhari Saut would contest under the coalition’s banner, despite vigorous lobbying from Gerakan.

While there is still time to change tack before tomorrow’s nomination day, the decisions made by both sides indicate...