KUALA LUMPUR: The contentious negotiation for seats among the unity government component parties is almost complete, with only one or two seats left to deliberate still.
“It’s almost finalised. Just a bit is left. We will announce our candidates soon,” said Prime Minister and Pakatan Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said this at a press conference after chairing the Unity Government Leadership Consultative Council Meeting at Menara Dato’ Onn here yesterday.
He added that the meeting which included Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, also saw leaders from both states giving their assurance towards preserving and strengthening the unity government.
This would ensure stability for economic growth and the people’s prosperity, he added.
“We will not entertain anything that derails us from the focus of strengthening the government,” he said.
Anwar expressed his gratitude to leaders in the unity government for their readiness to continue strengthening the government.
“What I’m saying today, which represents the majority of MPs, is that we want the unity government to complete its five-year term,” he added.
Anwar also announced the dates for the coming Jelajah Madani roadshows in Kedah (July 15), Penang (July 16), Kelantan (July 23), Negri Sembilan (July 27) and Terengganu (July 28).
Meanwhile, Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Barisan candidates would be announced on July 21.
“It will be for all candidates contesting in the coming state elections,” the Deputy Prime Minister said at the same press conference.
Ahmad Zahid said the meeting also discussed how all parties under the current government would be committed to help the machinery for those involved in the coming state polls.
“This is despite Sabah and Sarawak parties not participating in the polls.
“Yet, they are committed to help our candidates on the basis of a strong bond between parties in the government,” the Umno president added.
Sarawak premier Abang Johari also expressed its government’s commitment.
He reiterated that the state would guarantee no transition of power that goes against the democratic principles.
“We, in Sarawak, are committed to defend the unity at the national level so Malaysia can advance and become a competitive nation,” he said.
His counterpart, Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji, agreed that stability and prosperity are crucial for the country’s future.
“I have stressed our commitment towards the unity government led by Anwar.
“God willing, Sabah will also go to ground to help the government’s machineries in states facing the polls,” he added.
The meeting comes ahead of the state polls for Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu.
The six states will hold their polls simultaneously on Aug 12, with early polling on Aug 8. Nomination falls on July 29.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
