In a twist, Anwar claims Harapan has the numbers to form govt

GE15 | Despite not winning enough parliamentary seats to form the government on its own, Pakatan Harapan chairperson Anwar Ibrahim said the coalition has the numbers to do so.

"I wish to inform you that as a majority bloc, we have received support to form a government subject to the normal process. Majority means more than 111," he told reporters at the Grand Dorsett Hotel in Subang Jaya this morning.

However, he did not say who is supporting Harapan to form the government.

“I am only able to speak on behalf of Harapan.

“Subsequent issues involving other parties (can only be revealed) after we submit (evidence of support) to the Agong,” he said.

Asked if Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has thrown support behind Harapan, he said: “Of course, we welcome the participation of all parties to be inclusive, but I'm not at liberty to say more.”

Harapan supporters camped out at the hotel car park cheered and celebrated the announcement.

Simple majority

Harapan, which took 82 seats, has won the most number of seats but this is not enough to form a government on its own.

This includes Gopeng, whose official results have yet to be announced but where the Harapan candidate is likely the winner.

It needs 111 seats to form a simple majority.

GPS has won 22 seats. GPS and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) with eight seats earlier declared the formation of a Borneo bloc that will move together.

Anwar’s declaration came after PN chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin said the coalition is open to working with anyone except Harapan.

BN chairperson Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said BN is open to supporting a stable government, and “put aside past differences”.

However, Umno leader Hishammuddin Hussein said BN can work with any party or coalition, except for Harapan.

PN won 73 seats while BN won 30 seats. - Mkini