However, Zahidi, who was dropped by Barisan Nasional as a candidate in favour of Zahida Zarik Khan, has not decided under which banner to stand, Sinar Harian reported.

“Negotiations are ongoing,” he was quoted as saying.

Zahidi went on to say that Umno was in a state of confusion after many winnable candidates were sidelined in favour of fresh faces.

He also claimed that these fresh faces would encounter many obstacles.

Zahida, he said, would have stood a greater chance if Umno was strong, but based on the current situation, her chances were slim.

“The grassroots might be divided and this will make it difficult for her to win as they would prefer a local to represent them.”

Zahidi’s declaration that he would defend his seat comes hours after former Arau MP Shahidan Kassim confirmed he would defend his seat on a Perikatan Nasional ticket.

In the last general election, Zahidi won the seat with a 1,438 vote majority, beating Izizam Ibrahim of Bersatu who secured 13,594 votes.