The ruling BN coalition has identified over 1,000 names to fill parliamentary and state seats for the coming general election.

NONE Umno and BN secretary-general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor said the list would soon be submitted to Prime Minister Najib Razak, who is also Umno president and BN chairman, for shortlisting.

"We will screen these Umno and BN candidates before their names are given to the party president and inform the state liaison bodies.

"Most importantly, the candidate chosen is one who is wanted by the people and not the party," he told reporters after visiting the venue of the 66th Barisan Nasional Youth Career Carnival today.

He added that the list of names was obtained from state liaison bodies involving 191 divisions and 222 parliamentary constituencies.

Adnan said they will review reports of the names studied by party sources and appointed agencies for the final listing.

"These names presented to divisions or states will not necessarily become candidates as we will look at other sources too. Some divisions have provided three names, some less, and some have not given any names and are leaving it to the leadership to choose a name," he said.

Rumours of dissolution

Adnan said the candidates were combination of new and old faces, especially those who were wise and could lead the people as well as develop the country.

He was also asked about rumours that Najib had met with the Agong on the dissolution of Parliament.

"Some say it (dissolution) will take place in the next few days. All speculation. All I know is that Najib has a wedding to attend in Johor Bahru and will attend his child's graduation. Whatever it is, we are ready," he added.

Najib is due to leave for the United States tomorrow night for an official visit.

- Bernama