KOTA KINABALU: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is strong and fully capable of facing any political scenario, including contesting alone in the upcoming 17th state election.
Backing Chief Minister and GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s recent statement, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Youth chief Christoper Mandut said the coalition’s foundation of stability and people-centric governance give it the confidence and capacity to stand independently, should Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan finalise a partnership.
“GRS has the strength and strategic leadership to navigate any political challenge.
“If going solo becomes necessary, we are prepared,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Throwing full support behind the GRS leadership to go solo, Mandut said PBS Youth is fully mobilised and ready to defend the state-based coalition, adding that the coalition is guided by experienced leaders who are clear in their vision for Sabah.
“We have full confidence in the chief minister and GRS leadership.
“Their strategic planning is solid, and they are focused on preserving stability and driving development,” he added.
Mandut said Sabahans have seen the value of GRS’ efforts and leadership, and the coalition remains committed to serving the people above political manoeuvring.
“We dream of a stable, progressive administration like what Sarawak has achieved.
“I believe Sabah can do the same through GRS,” he said.
Hajiji, in a statement on Friday, said GRS will hold a leadership meeting soon to set its direction for the state election and engage in official discussions with current state government partners to gauge their stance on the matter.
His statement came after a joint statement by Pakatan Harapan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and unity government secretariat chief Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, confirming that Pakatan and Barisan have reached a consensus to work together in the upcoming Sabah state election.
The decision followed a high- level meeting on May 8 involving Pakatan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Both Sabah-based Barisan and Pakatan leadership also issued separate statements confirming the collaboration.
GRS consists of eight parties – Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, PBS, Sabah Progressive Party, Sabah STAR, United Sabah National Organisation (Usno), Parti Cinta Sabah, Liberal Democratic Party and Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah.
Sabah Barisan and Pakatan comprise four component parties each.
Barisan has Umno, MCA, MIC and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS), while Pakatan consists of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), PKR, DAP and Sabah Amanah.
