JOHOR BARU: Parti Bersama Malaysia (Bersama) remains firm on contesting solo in the upcoming state election, even if it means losing its deposits, says Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
Rafizi, who took over the party with Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad about three weeks ago, said Bersama wants to offer the people an alternative.
"We are fully aware that as a new party, one that is not going to negotiate with any parties, and entering an election without alliances, there is a possibility that we may lose our deposit.
"That is okay. Because if we want a good tree and good fruit, we must first plant good seeds, and that takes time," he said.
He said this in his speech during the Jelajah Kancil ceramah at Danga Bay Convention Centre on Saturday (June 6).
The former minister likened the Bersama's entry in the Johor election as a groom announcing his wedding without having a potential bride or made any bookings.
"It is something very rare, but our task now is to ensure we protect this seed, ensuring it survive and grown.
"If it survives the Johor election and Negri Sembilan election, then I believe we can win seats in if the (general) election is called this year," he said, adding that the party has so far have over 24,000 registered members.
On May 17, Rafizi and Nik Nazmi announced that they were leaving PKR to join Bersama, a party that was officially registered in December 2016.
On June 1, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the dissolution of the Johor state assembly, paving the way for a state election.
Johor last held a state election on March 12, 2022, in which Barisan Nasional secured a two-thirds majority after winning 40 of the 56 seats.
Of the 40 Barisan seats, Umno holds 33, MCA four and MIC three.
Pakatan won 12 seats (one Amanah, one PKR and 10 DAP), while Perikatan Nasional took three (two Bersatu and one PAS), and Muda won one.
