KUALA LUMPUR: A large number of Barisan Nasional supporters dressed in dark blue have started to throng the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTC KL) ahead of its much-anticipated candidates announcement for the six state polls.

       Barisan is expected to contest 45% of the 245 state seats in the upcoming elections and will field candidates from Umno after component parties MIC and MCA decided not to contest the Aug 12 state polls.

       A slew of surprises, including some big names, are expected to be announced on Friday (July 21) night.

       Among the names speculated are Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and supreme council member and Negri Sembilan state liaison chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias in Negri Sembilan, as well as Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican in Penang.

       Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is expected to make the official announcement.

       Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Penang, Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah go to the polls on Aug 12, with nominations set for July 29 and early voting on Aug 8.

       Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to announce the Selangor Pakatan Harapan candidates for the 59 state constituency seats in a ceremony at the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) on Saturday (July 22).

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