Sabah: Hajiji Seeks GRS Alliance Approval Before Dissolving State Assembly
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah – Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has affirmed that any move to dissolve the Sabah State Assembly and call for fresh elections will be made only after thorough consultation and agreement with his coalition partners within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
Speaking to reporters, Hajiji emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and consensus within the ruling coalition. He stated that the decision to seek a dissolution is a significant one with far-reaching implications, and it would be irresponsible to proceed without the full support of all GRS component parties.
“GRS is built on a foundation of collaboration and mutual respect. We operate on the principle of consultation and consensus. Therefore, any decision regarding the state assembly's dissolution will only be made after we've discussed it thoroughly with all our partners,” Hajiji explained. He declined to speculate on the timing of such discussions, noting that it would depend on various factors and ongoing political developments.
The statement comes amidst speculation regarding the possibility of early state elections in Sabah. Political analysts have suggested that the move could be considered to strengthen the ruling coalition's mandate and address certain political challenges. However, Hajiji’s stance highlights the commitment to stability and collaborative governance within GRS.
GRS, a coalition comprising Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS), and Upko, has been in power in Sabah since the 2020 state elections. The coalition’s performance and unity have been closely watched, particularly in light of the upcoming general election and potential shifts in the national political landscape.
The Chief Minister's emphasis on consultation reflects a cautious approach to navigating the current political climate. It signals a desire to avoid any actions that could potentially destabilize the state government or create divisions within the coalition. Observers believe that Hajiji's commitment to consensus-building will be crucial in ensuring the stability and continued success of GRS.
The upcoming discussions within GRS are expected to be closely monitored by political observers and the public alike. The outcome of these deliberations will likely shape the future of Sabah politics and influence the state's governance for the foreseeable future. The focus remains on maintaining a stable and collaborative political environment in Sabah, prioritizing the interests of the people above all else. Hajiji's approach underscores the importance of coalition politics and the need for unity in addressing the challenges facing Sabah.