As the general election approaches, political parties particularly those within a coalition are expected to demand for additional seats. So it is with Barisan Nasional parties.

The tussle for seats within Umno, the most senior BN party, for the coming general election has begun. Its Wanita chief, Rafidah Aziz, has asked for additional allocations.

Umno secretary general Khalil Yaakob has responded saying that the BN leadership would try to satisfy all its components on the seat allocation in the next general election.

Khalil, who is Information minister, said the task may be tough but once a decision is made, everyone should stick to it in the spirit of BN.

"I believe the BN leadership as well as Umno's will try to ensure that the seat allocation is handled to the satisfaction of everyone," Bernama quoted him as saying in Kuantan today.

Normal request

Asked on the possibility of more woman candidates being fielded in the next general election with the setting up of Puteri Umno, Khalil replied, "I cannot comment on this but we will hear out all views."

On Wanita Umno's request, Khalil described it as normal.

"Each time, we are about to face a general election, we have this kind of request, not only from Wanita Umno but also from Umno Youth".

"As always, the BN leadership would consider all views and hold discussions on seat allocation in the run up to the general election," the Umno secretary-general said.

Wanita Umno may have to face some competition from its junior wing, Puteri Umno in its request for more seats this time around.

Puteri Umno was set up recently to attract the younger generation and win back votes for the Malay-based party.