KUALA LUMPUR: The Batu seat, with 10 candidates in the fray, will really be a free-for-all in GE15, but lawyer-turned-politician Siti Kasim (pic) believes she would be a good choice because she does not have to toe any party line.

The Independent candidate said she could offer a different perspective, having a proven track record of fighting for people’s rights.

“I really feel Batu residents are able to judge who can offer knowledge and services,” she said.

“I have a track record of over 10 years. I have been consistent in my stand, and in my actions for the oppressed and against the authorities.

“I will not be afraid to do what is right for constituents. Batu voters ought to look at the person and their background (before deciding).

“If P. Prabakaran (of Pakatan Harapan) is better, then vote for him. If (ex-PKR leader turned Independent) Tian Chua is better, vote for him.”

Asked how she saw herself in the contest, she said: “I am just another competitor, another person who is offering herself as a candidate.”

Her manifesto centres on the separation of religion from government. She believes the subject will resonate with voters in the constituency, which has a majority of non-Malay voters.

“I am not against religion. What I am saying is that we don’t want politicians to be using religion as their political tool and rhetoric.”

Siti said being an Independent also gives her the freedom to voice out on any issues without having to obey party leaders on what can be said and what cannot be said.

She said she would also provide legal avenues for residents of Batu and hold classes to educate them on their rights.

“Many people do not know their rights,” said the 59-year-old known as an activist for Orang Asli and Orang Asal rights.

While she is Pakatan Harapan-friendly, she has no plans to join the coalition.

“If there’s any policy I disagree with, I will say I disagree,” she said, adding she would support Barisan Nasional or Perikatan Nasional if they came up with the right policies.

“I want what’s good for the rakyat,” said Siti.

Apart from Prabakaran and Tian Chua, Siti will be up against MIC’s Datuk A. Kohilan Pillay from Barisan, Perikatan’s Azhar Yahya (PAS), Pejuang’s Wan Azliana Wan Adnan, Warisan’s P. Naganathan, and Parti Rakyat Malaysia’s Zulkifli Abd Fatah.

Independents Nur Fathiah Syazwana and Too Cheng Huat are also contesting the seat.