Melaka Bersatu wants ongoing negotiations with Pakatan Harapan (PH) over a possible electoral understanding for the coming state election to be fully utilised, with a clear agreement finalised soon.
Melaka Bersatu information chief Hishamuddin Abdul Karim said this was particularly important ahead of the Election Commission’s (EC) meeting on Oct 7, as both sides worked to clarify the direction of any cooperation.
“Referring to the latest developments involving the proposed cooperation between Bersatu and PH for the Melaka state election, I welcome the efforts and progress in the ongoing negotiations.
“In my view, the available space for negotiations should be fully utilised and a clear understanding should be finalised soon, particularly ahead of the EC meeting on the Melaka state election,” he said in a statement today.
Talks include electoral cooperation and seats
Earlier, Bersatu and PH were reported to be preparing to discuss proposals on electoral cooperation and seat allocation.
A Bersatu source said the proposals had already been discussed within PH.
Hishamuddin said Bersatu supported efforts towards cooperation but stressed that any arrangement must take into account the party’s principles and interests.
He said any decision should also consider the current political landscape, the views of the state leadership, and the strength and morale of the party’s grassroots.
Melaka polls seen as important to Bersatu’s direction
“The Melaka election is not merely about one state election, but also has implications for Bersatu’s survival and direction, particularly in preparing for the larger political agenda of the next general election,” he said.
On Sept 19, Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari said the coalition was finalising talks with parties sharing similar aspirations, including Bersatu, towards forming a “PH Plus” arrangement for the state election.
