MELAKA: A group of 13 Independent candidates have signed statutory declarations (SDs) saying they will continue to remain independent should they win any seat in the Melaka state election.

       The group’s representative Datuk Dr Norazlanshah Hazali, who is contesting in Serkam, said that they prefer to remain independent and neutral if they win any seat.

       “If we join or form any parties after winning the state polls, legal action can be taken against us by voters and our seats will be vacated automatically,” he told a press conference at Menara Persekutuan yesterday.

       Norazlanshah said that although there were no laws at the state or federal level that requires them to vacate their seats should they join a political party, they would do so voluntarily.

       Copies of the SDs have been submitted to the state Election Commission as well as to the Speaker’s office.

       Norazlanshah added that they decided to come out with the SDs to show their commitment to continue the fight against party-hopping.

       The group said that in the event that they win, they would also table an enactment in the state assembly to stop party-hopping within a period of 12 months.

       There are 22 Independent candidates contesting the the election.

       Two other candidates who had earlier said they would also sign the SDs, however, were not present.

       The two are contesting in Bemban and Bandar Hilir.

       Melaka voters will choose a new state government on Nov 20 following the dissolution of the state assembly after four assemblymen withdrew their support for former chief minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali.