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DAP grassroots frustrated as Pakatan Harapan sits out Bemban contest

Party members have urged the opposition coalition to reconsider its decision not to field a candidate in the Bemban seat, warning that voter turnout could suffer as a result.

LSN Malaysia · 28 October 2026

DAP grassroots frustrated as Pakatan Harapan sits out Bemban contest

Grassroots members of the Democratic Action Party have expressed disappointment over Pakatan Harapan's decision to forgo contesting the Bemban parliamentary seat, raising concerns about the impact on voter engagement in the constituency.

The party supporters have called on the opposition coalition to reassess its strategy, arguing that the withdrawal sends mixed signals to the electorate and could discourage voters from turning out at the polls.

The decision has sparked debate within DAP ranks, with members questioning whether the move aligns with the coalition's broader electoral objectives in the region. Some have warned that ceding ground without a contest may undermine voter confidence and mobilisation efforts.

Pakatan Harapan has not yet publicly responded to the grassroots concerns, though the coalition's decision-making process typically involves consultation among its member parties. The Bemban seat represents one of several contests where opposition parties have made strategic choices about candidate fielding in the lead-up to electoral cycles.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between party leadership and grassroots organisers over electoral strategy and resource allocation across contested constituencies.