Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced Melaka BN chief and caretaker chief minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh as the coalition’s candidate to continue leading the Melaka state government following its victory in the 16th state election.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Umno president, said BN and its strategic partner Perikatan Nasional (PN) had agreed to nominate Ab Rauf for the position after securing a two-thirds majority with 24 of the 28 seats contested.

He said the appointment process would proceed with a letter of nomination to be submitted to Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Rustam tonight.

“With this, I announce that Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional hereby nominate Datuk Seri Utama Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh as the candidate for Melaka Chief Minister.