KOTA KINABALU: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and UMNO Sabah are set to hold discussions on the upcoming simultaneous by-elections for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state seat following the death of Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
Chief Minister and GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the coalition is inclined to give way to its unity government partner and is unlikely to contest, but stressed that no final decision has been made pending consultations within GRS and with Barisan Nasional and Umno leadership.
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Sabah Umno liaison chief Datuk Jafry Ariffin said negotiations are necessary as both parties are part of the Sabah Unity Government, adding that Umno believes Barisan Nasional should defend both seats based on past records.
He said grassroots preparations are underway, with several potential candidates identified, including new faces.
The Election Commission has set nomination day for Jan 10, early voting on Jan 20 and polling on Jan 24, 2026.
The by-elections involve 48,722 voters and will cost an estimated RM10 million, with a 14-day campaign period ending on Jan 23.
