LETTER | Some might think that reinstating 'old-timers' could attract voters to elect them even they represent parties that most people dislike.

Or we might think the idea of naming young or fresh-faced candidates is brilliant as local voters may be 'resisting' long-serving parliamentarians or assemblypersons.

To me, in this coming election, neither is realistic.

Most voters are now cleverer. They vote based on their evaluations which are heavily driven by political sentiments cemented in their minds. They do not love the candidates, they love their political flags.

I believe that in this general election, the question "Who are the candidates?" would be the second or even third thing on most voters' minds.

The first thing that matters them is which parties the candidates represent.

Regardless of candidates' physical looks, professional credentials, historical contributions or "the grassroots love me so much" claim, most voters would vote for the party first.

Being a “will try hard” candidate is no more persuasive, unless you have been one since the very first day you served as a wakil rakyat.

Only leaders whose track records are highly applauded can be segregated from the league of "voters will choose the party, not candidates."

To those newly-announced candidates from both sides, don't worry about who you are but worry about "will voters elect my party?"

And to independent candidates, good luck in getting back your deposits!

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.