Why are BN incumbents urged to support new candidates?

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BN Incumbents Urged to Support New Candidates to Ensure Continuity and Strengthen Barisan Nasional's Electoral Prospects

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has urged incumbent Barisan Nasional (BN) Members of Parliament and State Legislative Assembly members who are not selected to contest in the upcoming 14th general election (GE14) to continue providing support and assistance to the new BN candidates chosen to replace them. This directive was conveyed during a meeting with all incumbent BN MPs at Seri Perdana, Putrajaya, emphasizing the importance of party unity and continued commitment to the BN's electoral success. The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the dedicated service rendered by the outgoing incumbents in their respective constituencies and within Parliament.
Acknowledging Past Service and Future Commitment

During the special meeting, which lasted approximately half an hour, Prime Minister Najib Razak acknowledged the "excellent service" of the incumbent MPs. He specifically encouraged those who have been selected to contest in GE14 to intensify their campaign efforts and to remain dedicated to their work should they be elected. Concurrently, a clear expectation was set for those not chosen to run again: they are to offer their full support to the newly nominated BN candidates, ensuring a smooth transition and leveraging their experience to bolster the party's campaign.
Maintaining Party Strength Amidst Electoral Changes

The directive underscores a strategic approach by BN to maintain its political strength and ensure continuity in governance. By encouraging incumbents, regardless of their selection status, to back the new candidates, the party aims to present a united front. This is particularly crucial in constituencies where new faces are introduced, as the experience and local knowledge of the former representatives can be invaluable in galvanizing support and navigating the electoral landscape. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi reiterated this sentiment when speaking to the press after the meeting.
Strengthening Campaign Efforts and Constituency Engagement

The Prime Minister's call to action for both selected and non-selected incumbents is designed to maximise BN's chances in GE14. For those contesting, the expectation is to "multiply their efforts during the campaign and to continue to work harder when they are elected." For those stepping aside, the hope is that they will "continue to provide support and assistance to the new candidates picked," thereby ensuring that their established networks and understanding of constituency needs are effectively transferred and utilized by the new BN representatives.

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Why are BN incumbents urged to support new candidates?

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