The recently concluded mammoth Stadium Merdeka rally – Himpunan
Kebangkitan Rakyat – has provided a much needed infusion of new life
into the opposition campaign. Although they have invigorated their
challenge to Barisan Nasional (BN) rule, opposition leaders must realize
that they have an uphill battle to dislodge BN from power.
Instead of boasting or congratulating themselves on what they have achieved at the rally, it is essential that the opposition parties work harder in taking the fight especially to the Barisan strongholds.
The next few months will be crucial. The opposition must only show
that it is alive and kicking. Pakatan Rakyat (PR) needs to prove that it
is the superior coalition to run the country. The campaign to convince
Malaysians to vote for change can work if PR keeps in mind the following
key strategies.Tips to win GE13
Run a principled and ethical campaign. Malaysian voters know that the BN is a party that thrives on spinning and dirty tricks. From race baiting to inciting religious sentiments to demonization of the opposition, BN are masters of the sleazy campaign. The PR should not emulate the BN. Fight a clean campaign. This will resonate with the basic positive values and good sense of Malaysians.
PAS and DAP must not kill the coalition by disagreement on religious concerns or any other part of their manifesto. Loose cannons end up shooting at themselves and their allies instead of the opponents. Every small dispute will be magnified by the mass media which is more one-sided and partisan than in the 2008 elections. PR leaders from the top down must remember that discretion and opening their mouths only when necessary is the art of the political war.
Design an innovative campaign aimed at the grassroots and heartland of UMNO and BN support. Mobilize election teams to fan out in swing constituencies to show that there is stronger inter-racial unity and solidarity among the opposition coalition parties while focusing on the common needs of the Malay or non-Malay electorate.
Develop a progressive outreach that can incorporate the concerns of the smaller but nevertheless significant minority voters such as Indians and natives of East Malaysia.
Focus on the fixed deposit vote bank of the BN amongst civil servants and Felda and other rural voters. These two constituencies are the likely game changers.
Read More / Baca Lagi >>