Why does Bersama delay candidate announcements until the last minute?

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Bersama's Candidate Announcement Strategy Aims for Surprise, Contrasting with Historical Campaign Tactics

Bersama has chosen to reveal its 15 candidates just 12 hours before the nomination deadline, a decision Rafizi Ramli has described as a deliberate strategy. This approach contrasts with historical political tactics, such as those employed by Dr. Mahathir Mohamad in the 1980s, where shortened election campaigns were used to rush opponents and limit their ability to familiarise voters with their platforms and candidates.
Last-Minute Announcements Aim to Capitalise on Surprise

The timing of Bersama's candidate unveilings, occurring mere hours before the nomination cutoff, has been explicitly termed a "strategy" by Rafizi Ramli. This tactic suggests an intention to maintain an element of surprise, potentially preventing rival parties from formulating immediate counter-strategies or reactions to the chosen candidates. The goal appears to be to keep opponents and the electorate guessing until the very last moment, thereby disrupting established campaign rhythms.
Historical Context of Shortened Campaigns for Strategic Advantage

In the past, political leaders have strategically shortened election campaign periods. For instance, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad reportedly employed this tactic in the 1980s to create a sense of urgency and disorient, giving opponents less time to engage with voters and introduce their ideas effectively. This approach, when combined with the advantages of incumbency and control over state media, could make it challenging for new or less established parties to gain traction.
The Importance of Time for New Parties and Ideas

For new political entities like Bersama, introducing novel ideas and establishing a connection with the electorate typically requires sufficient time. New concepts need to "coagulate in the minds of the people," and new parties must "seed their ideas in the masses' minds" to gain understanding and support. Therefore, announcing candidates and core principles early is generally considered critical for new parties to build momentum, familiarise voters with their platform, and recruit volunteers and agents for election day operations.

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Why does Bersama delay candidate announcements until the last minute?

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