Sabah PKR open to ‘friendly contests’ in state polls if talks fail

 The party says, however, that it is working to prevent clashes between allies in the government coalition.

Sabah PKR chief Mustapha Sakmud said contests among allies are common in politics. (Facebook pic)

SERDANG:

 Sabah PKR chief Mustapha Sakmud says he is open to “friendly contests” between allies if the ongoing negotiations over seat allocations ahead of the Sabah state election fail.

Mustapha said PKR is working to prevent clashes between parties in the government coalition, and aiming for fair seat distribution without overlaps.

“We’re still negotiating and doing our best to avoid contests. The goal is fair allocation without duplication,” he said.

“But if talks break down, friendly contests are an option. It’s common in politics.”

He did not specify which parties are involved in the negotiations.

Mustapha, the deputy higher education minister, was speaking to reporters at an event at Universiti Putra Malaysia here today.

Sabah Umno treasurer Salleh Said Keruak yesterday suggested that overlapping seats be handled through friendly contests, while maintaining unity and a shared objective.

He said this approach was better than allowing internal tensions or encouraging sponsored independent candidates.

Mustapha said PKR’s main priority was political stability, and warned that clashes at the state level could strain relationships within the federal government.

“I urge everyone to stay open-minded. There’s no benefit in fighting among ourselves and risking division.

“We want unity to continue. Avoiding unnecessary contests can help reduce friction among parties,” he said. - FMT