GE13: Najib - A strong government Barisan's main objective

War cry: Najib with Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and BN leaders raising their hands during a meeting with the BN election machinery in Kuala Lumpur.

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Forming a strong and viable government should be the ultimate objective of all Barisan Nasional members, rather than being selected as a candidate, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.

If they truly understand why general elections are held, they will not allow any other consideration or emotion to outweigh Barisan's interest, he said.

The Barisan chief drove home this message during a closed-door meeting yesterday.

The meeting was regarded as crucial as it was likely to be the last time for the coalition chairman to meet Barisan members before unveiling the candidates for the 222 parliamentary and 505 state seats.

“This is the main reason this gathering was held. I listed several factors which the leadership will consider in choosing candidates,” Najib said at the end of the hour-long closed-door session.

Barisan elected representatives, component party leaders as well as state and division heads attended the meeting.

Najib said the criteria included how acceptable a candidate was for voters as well as his or her capability and track record.

A fair consideration was also given for the interest of all component parties.