Kota Kinabalu: The Star has been accused of trying to undermine the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition by claiming that several component leaders were caught off guard by announcement of an electoral pact with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the imminent State election.
GRS Treasurer-General Ardino Diris regretted, Monday, that the peninsula paper’s report was based solely on unnamed sources.
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“It is inappropriate and unethical to publish a report based on anonymous sources, as if it reflects the collective position of the coalition. GRS has always practised consultation and discussion in making key decisions, including electoral cooperation,” he said in a statement Monday.
He said GRS Chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s announcement that the cooperation with PH had been discussed was accurate and reflected the reality of internal deliberations within GRS.
“As a mature coalition, GRS would never make a major announcement without going through a strategic discussion process involving the coalition’s leadership.
“Therefore, any anonymous personal views do not represent the official stance of the component parties,” he said.
He stressed that GRS would not succumb to outside pressure but remain committed to prioritising the interests of the people and political stability in Sabah ahead of the 17th State Election (PRN17).
“We must move as a united team. The strategic cooperation with PH is aimed at ensuring Sabah continues to be governed by a stable, inclusive and progressive government. Division will only harm the people,” he emphasised.
On claims that Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star), Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) and United Sabah Nationa Organisation (Usno) were more inclined to see GRS contest the election solo, Ardino said differing views in politics were normal but all parties remained committed to the spirit of consensus within GRS.
“GRS has never silenced differing opinions. However, once a joint decision is made, all parties respect it and lend their full support for our collective success,” he said.
On Sunday, Hajiji, who is also Chief Minister, announced that consensus had been reached between GRS and PH to face PRN17 together, as a move to strengthen the current government bloc which is stable and trusted by the people.
GRS, led by Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) includes PBS, Star, SAPP, Usno, Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS), Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (Harapan Rakyat).
Meanwhile, Sabah PH comprises Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Democratic Action Parti (Dap), United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) and Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah).
