Deal is on: 13 seats non-negotiable
Published on: Saturday, April 20, 2024
By: Nikko Fabian
Pairin (centre) witnessing the exchange of MoU documents between Dr Joachim (second left) and Dr Jeffrey at Hongkod Koisaan Penampang.
Kota Kinabalu: PBS acting president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the 13 State seats currently held by the party and Star are non-negotiable, while others are open for discussion.
He said the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday at Unity Hall in Honkod Koisaan between Parti Bersatu Sabah and Star is designed to ensure victory for the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition in the next state election.
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The political collaboration would be known as Bersatu-Solidariti (Best). Best is based on five key aspects namely strengthen collaboration and political cooperation, cooperate and collaborate in solving Sabah’s main issues, set up a Joint Leadership Council (JLC), information sharing and leadership training and setting up a strategic committee.
Joachim who is also deputy chief minister stressed the importance of unity, stating that a divided front would weaken their chances.
He highlighted missed opportunities in the previous election, suggesting that they could have secured more seats.
He said the pact between the two local parties should not be perceived as a threat to others within the GRS coalition as the primary goal is to secure more seat victories for GRS.
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The signing symbolises a commitment to bridging political divides and working towards a consolidated GRS government that prioritises Sabah’s interests, he said.
Joachim compared the process to a marriage, emphasising the importance of understanding each other before proceeding.
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On his part, Star President Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the MoU signifies a mutual understanding to work together towards shared aspirations and objectives.
He stressed the importance of unity and solidarity and that internal conflicts only result in losses for all parties involved.
Jeffrey acknowledged past instances where both predominantly KadazanDusun parties wasted resources and to avoid repeating the mistakes.
He also expressed confidence in winning three times the 13 seats both acquired in the previous election.
Jeffrey also urged component parties within GRS coalition not to worry, as it would strengthen GRS’ rule.
He reiterated full support for Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.
Meanwhile, PBS founder cum Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan expressed his support for the MoU, describing it as a significant step towards unity and cooperation.
He said there was need for focused and serious work, urging the parties to follow through on their commitments not just for the coming election but until their joint ambitions are realised.
In the 16th Sabah State election, Star and PBS secured six and seven seats, respectively, in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
The GRS coalition comprises Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, PBS, Star, SAPP, Usno, Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah and LDP.
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