By Peter Sibon
KUCHING, August 8: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg is unperturbed with Pas’ intention to contest in the coming state election.
“In a democratic country, any party is free to contest. If Pas wants to contest in the state election it’s up to them. But the top (Pas) leadership said they will not contest (in state election).
“Whether the top (Pas) leadership directed them, I don’t know. But as far as GPS is concerned, any time (we are ready to face the state election),” he told a press conference after making a site visit to the new RM50 million Sungai Bintangor Bridge at Jalan Ajibah Abol here today.
Yesterday (Aug 7), Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (Pas) Sarawak has revealed that the party planned to contest in the coming state election as well as the 15th general election if a snap election is held.
Pas Sarawak Commissioner Jofri Jeraiee was quoted saying that the party has identified potential candidates to contest in certain areas.
Although GPS is part of the Perikatan Nasional (PN)-led federal government, but the coalition is not a component party of PN, which consisted of Barisan Nasional (BN), Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) and Pas.
When asked on Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s new party, the Chief Minister refused to comment.
In addition, he also quashed rumours that the state election will be held in October.
“It will not be that soon,” he said.—DayakDaily
