Shafie: Warisan is now PH minus, not PH Plus

 

Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said while it has no issues working with PKR, DAP and Parti Amanah Negara, it was nevertheless never formally part of Pakatan. - NSTP file pic

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan Sabah today hinted that it is weaning itself from its informal ties to the Pakatan Harapan (PH) opposition coalition and keeping its options open ahead of the 15th general election (GE15).

Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said while it has no issues working with PKR, DAP and Parti Amanah Negara, it was nevertheless never formally part of Pakatan.

"We are PH minus already, not PH Plus. But as the opposition, we work together," he said during an online forum titled "The Perspektif" on Sunday night.

Asked about Warisan's political alignment for GE15, Shafie said while anything can happen in politics, it has to be based on the people's aspirations.

"In the political world, anything can happen. But, if we have principles, it would not be that easy (for things to change). We cannot have a blank cheque to sign whereby after we win the mandate, we form a government (with other parties).

"We can form the government with anyone, but it has to be according to the people's aspirations (on issues) such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963, oil royalty and others related to rights of Sabahans," he said.

Asked about the best coalition for Warisan for the upcoming general election, Shafie said despite the party being offered to join different political partnerships, Warisan's priority would be on strengthening itself.

"It is not about coalition but about strengthening the party. If our house is damaged, no one will work with a weak and divided party.

"On the flip side, it will become a respected party which others want to work with. But we are a small party and we cannot be too dominant as It weakens partners.

"In this sharing of power, there must be sincerity and a working relationship to help one another," he said, adding that Warisan was also building its youth base nationally.

Shafie, who is former Sabah chief minister, said Warisan wants to build a nation where the people are united instead of forming political alliances for personal gains including coveting positions in government.

On the use of a common logo during GE15 by all opposition parties, Shafie said it was important for the opposition to have a mutual consensus on using the same symbol so as not to confuse the people. - NST