Abang Jo disappointed over Bersatu man standing in Krian

 

Ali Biju, who is the incumbent for the Krian seat, has gone against Bersatu’s decision by choosing to stand as an independent in the seat. (Facebook pic)

KUCHING: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman Abang Johari Openg has expressed disappointment over Bersatu man Ali Biju’s decision to stand as an independent candidate in the Krian seat.

In a press conference after launching the GPS manifesto, he said Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin had said action would be taken against Ali, who is the incumbent for the seat.

The Bersatu leadership had said earlier that the party would not contest in the polls and would instead help to ensure the success of its GPS allies.

However, Ali, who is also the MP for Saratok and the deputy energy and natural resources minister, appeared to have broken ranks by standing as an independent for the state seat he has held since 2011.

Previously, Bersatu information chief Wan Saiful Wan Jan warned that action could be taken against Ali.

Meanwhile, Abang Johari said it was too early for him to pledge equal allocations for all elected representatives as GPS did not have the mandate yet.

“I cannot give a definite answer. Wait until after Dec 18 (polling day).”

On the issue of party-hopping, he said the federal constitution provided for freedom of association.

“However, what is important to me is integrity. Politicians must have integrity,” he said. - FMT