SHAH ALAM: Pakatan Harapan is ready to hold talks with Barisan Nasional on the possibility of working together in the Selangor state election next year, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
Amirudin, who is Selangor Pakatan chairman, said Pakatan was not averse to discussions with Barisan to continue the same cooperation attained at the federal level , which paved the way for the formation of a stable unity government.
“Although Selangor is now (politically) stable enough, we are not being big-headed or greedy. If there is room for discussion, we will discuss it. As state Pakatan chairman, I am very hopeful we can retain Selangor.
“If we have to go at it alone, then so be it. But if we can cooperate with other friends (parties) maybe that will help us in several more seats.
“We are open to talks for cooperation for the upcoming state election,” he told reporters at the state legislative assembly yesterday as reported by Bernama.The Mentri Besar was asked about the possibility of a Pakatan-Barisan pact in the state election.
On the position of the Selangor legislative assembly opposition chief, currently held by Sungai Air Tawar assemblyman Datuk Rizam Ismail of Barisan, he said efforts must be more towards the state polls rather than the Opposition’s role in the assembly.
He said the situation, including the direction to be taken by Pakatan and Barisan will be clearer as the election draws nearer.
When asked whether he would take up any position at the federal level, Amirudin said he prefers to remain in Selangor.
He added that he wants to ensure Pakatan Harapan’s victory in the state election, and is not interested in positions at the federal level.
“My focus is as Selangor Pakatan chief and Mentri Besar. I will make sure Pakatan wins the majority and forms the government, as it had done in the last three terms.”
If the cooperation happens, it would be a similar pact in the Tioman state seat election in Pahang.
Amanah is giving way to the Barisan candidate there, in the spirit of the new Pahang government, which is an alliance between Barisan and Pakatan.
