Salleh… negotiation hit a deadlock as BN was only offered 8 seats to contest in the forthcoming PRN17.
KOTA KINABALU : – The negotiations between Barisan Nasional (BN) Sabah and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) have hit a deadlock, as BN was only offered eight seats, despite holding 14 seats (incumbents) from the previous state election (PRN).
In disclosing this matter, BN Sabah Treasurer Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak stated that the basis for the seat distribution negotiations is clear: the seats won in the last PRN should remain with the original party (incumbency rule).
“If there are overlaps and exchanges, they must be resolved through agreement (swap rule). This principle is fair and logical.
“It has been reported that a key leader of the GRS component party mentioned that even eight seats are too many for BN.
“Such statements are very hurtful, as they seem to disrespect BN and deny BN’s contributions and strength in Sabah,” he said in a recent Facebook post.
Salleh, a former Chief Minister of Sabah, mentioned that BN Sabah is always open to discussions with any political party but firmly disagrees with proposals that are clearly detrimental and unfair.
He stated that BN Sabah’s position is consistent with the statement from BN Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi that BN will not compromise if the basis of negotiations is not respected.
With Pakatan Harapan, Salleh noted that negotiations have been smooth, as both parties respect this foundation.
“Where there are overlaps, swaps are utilised. The results are nearly finalised, demonstrating BN-PH’s willingness to collaborate in the spirit of a Unity Government,” he said.
Yesterday, Zahid was quoted as saying that BN will not cooperate with GRS in the upcoming Sabah PRN.
However, Zahid emphasised that the BN-PH collaboration will continue. – Jesselton Times