Ali Biju withdraws, will back GPS candidate

SARAWAK POLLS | Bersatu's Ali Biju has withdrawn his candidacy for the Krian race and will instead back a Gabungan Parti Sarawak candidate.

Ali is a two-term assemblyperson for Krian and filed his nomination papers on Monday to defend his seat.

In a statement, Ali (above) explained that had he not withdrawn, it would affect Bersatu and GPS' relationship.

"I have been advised by the party leadership and given assurances by our president Muhyiddin Yassin on Perikatan Nasional's understanding with GPS.

"I am confident that this cooperation will be continued and strengthened," he said.

Ali, as the Saratok MP, urged his constituents - which encompasses the Krian, Kalaka and Kabong state constituencies - to back GPS.

Although Ali has ceased his campaign, his name will still appear on the ballot slip because the deadline to withdraw has lapsed.

Under Section 11(7) of the Elections Regulation, a candidate can withdraw in writing to the returning officer before noon a day after being nominated.

The other candidates for Krian are Friday Belik (GPS), Musa Dinggat (Parti Sarawak Bersatu) and Danny Kuan (Parti Bumi Kenyalang).

Meanwhile in separate statements, Sarawak Bersatu chief senator Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian and Bersatu information chief Wan Saiful Wan Jan thanked Ali for his "sacrifice".

Jaziri said the decision was in line with Bersatu's decision not to contest in the Sarawak state election.

Both Jaziri and Wan Saiful hoped that GPS ties with PN will be strengthened.

 - Mkini