PETALING JAYA: Bersatu is still a Perikatan Nasional component party, says the coalition's chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.
"As of today, Aug 9, Bersatu is still part of Perikatan.
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"Bersatu's position is somewhat unique – several of its MPs have lodged reports with the Registrar of Societies (ROS) on the legitimacy of Perikatan's leadership committee," he said at a press conference after officiating the 23rd Perak PAS Convention at Hotel Perdana here on Sunday (Aug 9).
On the possibility of Perikatan working with Barisan Nasional in the Melaka polls, Samsuri said they were open to negotiations.
"No talks have been held yet and the state assembly has also not been dissolved," he said adding there was ample time for discussion with other possible allies.
"Ideally, discussions should take place before dissolution," he said.
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On Saturday (Aug 8), Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said it was not closing the door on talks over seat allocations for the Melaka polls.
On Aug 6, Zahid said Barisan would defend all 21 state seats it holds in Melaka.
On Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz's call for ROS to take action against the coalition leadearship, Samsuri said anyone was free to voice their opinion.
"It is up to the authorities to decide if action should be taken, as long as it complies with regulations. I cannot stop anyone from speaking," he said.
Samsuri also said Pakatan Harapan's apparent willingness to enter seat negotiations with Barisan was part of politics.
"Any political party can hold discussions," he said.
Asked about a possible Perikatan-Barisan cooperation in four states dubbed as SG4, Samsuri said there were many factors to consider
"Political dynamics are unique. They are not only time-based but also geographical. The model in each state differs and different considerations have to be made according to circumstances," he said.
