MELAKA: A group of 15 Independent candidates have signed statutory declarations (SDs) saying they will not jump or form any parties should they win any seats in the Melaka election.

       Group representative Datuk Dr Datuk Norazlanshah Hazali (pic) said that they preferred to remain independent and neutral if they win any of the state seats.

       "If we jump or form any parties after winning the state polls, legal action can be taken against us by the voters and our seats will be automatically vacated," said the Independent candidate for the Serkam seat at a press conference at Menara Persekutuan here Monday (Nov 15).

       He added that they decided to do so to show their commitment to fight against party hopping.

       The candidates will also table an enactment in the state assembly to stop party hopping within a period of 12 months.

       The copies of the SDs have been submitted to the state Election Commission (EC) as well as the Speaker's office.

       He added that although there are no laws at the state or federal level that require them to vacate their seats, they would still voluntarily do so.

       Melaka voters will choose a new state government on Nov 20.

       The election is being held following the dissolution of the state assembly after four assemblymen, including Idris, withdrew their support for former chief minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali.