At first glance, the PAS candidate for Galas, Dr Zulkefli Mohamad, seems earnest and sincere, two things that could stand well in his stead as he attempts to win the hearts and minds of voters.Meeting the media for the first time since being officially announced by the Election Commission as a candidate, the good doctor spent about 20 minutes chatting with reporters informally at the Islamic party's operations centre in Gua Musang, Kelantan, yesterday evening.
Flanked by his campaign coordinator and chief advisor, Zulkefli apologised to the media for having cancelled several interviews before nomination day.
“I was engaged in preparations and discussions prior to nomination day, and I did not have the time to meet the press,” he said.
Reporters went straight for the jugular, firing off campaign related and policy questions after several softball introductions. Despite his previous experience in running for elections, he was seemingly disconcerted by the glare of the media spotlight that was suddenly turned on him. He fell back on what appeared to be prepared lines, with his standard answer to most issues relying on the PAS-led state government solutions.
“The state government has in place plans to deal with the issue and they will roll it out in time,” said Zulkefli.
“I am the facilitator to the state government programmes, many of which started by my late predecessor Che Hashim Sulaima. My presence will make things work smoothly.”
Several times he was caught offguard and was unable to respond, remaining silent for short periods of time and having to be rescued by his advisors. The only policy issue for his campaign that the reporters were able to pry out of him is that he will look into problems that local residents have with land issues.
Gentle nature
Despite his awkwardness in responding to questions, Zulkefli's firm handshake and friendly appearance are very much in his favour. As an indication of his paternal nature, his first thought was for election workers, volunteers and the media when asked to comment on the by-election.
He advised everyone to be mindful of their health and to get sufficient rest during the campaign. But good nature alone may not be enough for success for an assemblyperson who will be expected to clearly express the needs of constituents and to push for funds for development. Such aggressiveness and ability to articulate seem out of Zulkefli's reach at the moment, based on observations.
His visit to a Chinese temple last night showcased his somewhat reserved nature. Zulkefli greeted the voters with a smile, but failed to use the opportunity to ask for votes. It is obvious that his advisors have much to do, to boost his profile as a candidate before the ballots are cast on Nov 4.-Hazlan Zakaria
source:malaysiakini
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