Speculation that DAP parliamentary leader Lim Kit Siang is to contest the general election in Johor will not affect the people's support for Umno and BN, says former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Johor would welcome Lim's presence there, and he was free to contest in any seat, Mahathir said in a cynical tone.

"I think if Lim wants to go to Johor (to contest), it will be welcomed. I think (Umno and BN) in Johor want to see him contest in any seat there.

"But I do not think he will make any impact (on Umno and BN)," Mahathir said when asked about reports that Lim, the Ipoh Timor MP, is set to assault the southern state that is an Umno bastion.

Widespread speculation is that Lim will contest in Gelang Patah, which is presently held by MCA's Tan Ah Eng. An official announcement is expected tonight at DAP's 47th anniversary celebration in Skudai, which many Pakatan Rakyat leaders - including Lim - are attending.

Lim was reported wanting to gather feedback before announcing his decision on which parliamentary seat to contest in Johor. Besides Gelang Patah, the other probable seats are Kulai and Kluang.   

Gelang Patah has 54 percent Chinese voters, 34 percent Malay and 12 percent Indian.

Lim is known to move from one parliamentary seat to another in order to expand the opposition party's influence - having done so in Penang, Perak, and now possibly Johor.

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