KUCHING, Dec 10: With Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia’s (Bersatu) sacrifice for the sake of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in this 12th Sarawak Election, Krian incumbent Datuk Ali Biju hopes that the favour will be returned in the future 15th General Election (GE15) with GPS giving way to Bersatu in the Saratok parliamentary constituency.
Ali emphasised that his sacrifice in the 12th Sarawak Election is the best decision and a strategic one for the country and to concentrate on the “bigger picture” of the coming GE15.
“This is a sacrifice from both parties as I am the incumbent for both Krian and Saratok. So now that we have sacrificed Krian, we discussed and we will contest in Saratok. This is what we hope for.
“The discussion has been done among the top leadership of GPS and Besatu; I cannot reveal the details but there are discussions about the position of Krian and Saratok,” he told a press conference in Saratok today following the visit from Bersatu Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Azmin Ali and Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Rashid Hasnon.
He added that it was an important decision for the good of all and to maintain the harmonious relationship between GPS and Bersatu.
On a question, he admitted that the Bersatu top leadership including president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin have indeed advised him not to contest following the agreement reached between GPS and Bersatu, but he decided to give it a run following the adamant and strong request from grassroots and supporters.
Now that his withdrawal is final, Ali reiterated his full support not only to GPS Krian candidate Friday Belik, but also other GPS candidates in Kabong (Mohamad Chee Kadir) and Kalaka (Mohamad Duri) which are constituencies under Saratok parliamentary constituency.
“My supporters in general understand the need for this strategic decision which is why they (Azmin and Rashid) are here purposely to make this clear that this is the best decision for my and Saratok’s political future,” he emphasised.
On the issue with his name still appearing on the ballot paper and the possibility that it may cause confusion to voters, Ali gave assurance that he will go down to all villages and longhouses to explain to voters and supporters not to mark the ‘x’ on his name but on the GPS candidate Friday.
“I will continue to actively campaign for GPS starting from Sunday. My machinery will also assist in reaching out to the grassroots to clarify this matter,” he said.
Despite the risk of confusion come Election Day, Ali said he is confident that with his support, Friday will win the Krian seat.
“His (Friday) victory is also my victory. This is the strategic alliance which we need to strengthen for the sake of Saratok parliamentary constituency. As such, I appeal to the people of Krian to support Friday,” he urged.
Ali also seeks the cooperation from both GPS and Bersatu at all levels to deliver positive statements and meaningful messages in this campaigning period to reduce the tension and contribute to the winning of GPS Krian candidate in the election.
“We are together now so all the statements that could offend others should stop for the victory in Krian. We need to calm the supporters down and I believe with positive and meaningful messages, my supporters can accept and support the GPS candidate,” he added. — DayakDaily
