Sabah parties on campaign trail for GE15

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah political parties are on the campaign trail as they garner support in preparation for a possible general election to be called at any time.

Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Sabah Barisan Nasional led by Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin as well as Parti Warisan led by Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal have been holding gatherings across the state almost every weekend this month.

GRS kicked off their state tour on Aug 20 with the launch in the interior Keningau district, and has since covered the northern Kudat and east coast districts of Lahad Datu and Sandakan among others.

Sabah Barisan, who is a coalition partner with the GRS-Barisan state government, has also kicked off its "Blue Wave tour" in Tawau, followed by Kota Belud and Pensiangan as it continues to strengthen its support from the grassroots.

Bung said that the gatherings were not only to strengthen their position on the ground but also for members to express solidarity to fight as one team in the election.

This weekend (Oct 1-2), A Blue Wave programme will be held in Sandakan where they expect at least 10,000 people to show solidarity for the coalition.

The gathering will involve five parliamentary constituencies - Kinabatangan, Beluran Libaran, Batu Sapi and Sandakan.

According to him, the event will launch the election machinery for the five constituencies under Zone Five on Sunday (Oct 2).

He said from Oct 1 evening, a variety of programmes including the RTM Talent Contest, cultural performances, dance entertainment performances by Renewar Band, Lai Norman FT Atomic Power, Secret Busker, Qysstyna Busker, Busker Events, MZA Musician, aerobic gymnastics and a lucky draw will be help as part of the celebrations.

It is not clear as yet if Barisan and GRS will be working together for the general election with both Bung and Hajiji so far not dismissing the possibility.

GRS comprise Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Sabah Bersatu chapter), Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Sabah STAR, Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), and Usno while Barisan comprises Sabah Umno, Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS), MCA and MIC.

Shafie has also been holding Warisan gatherings on the east coast including Lahad Datu, Semporna and Tawau since last weekend and is expected to continue in other districts in the state.