Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) has expressed hope that Barisan Nasional (BN) will join forces with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming state elections in Melaka and Johor, in line with the spirit of cooperation underpinning the Unity Government.
Amanah Communications Director, Khalid Abd Samad said the party remains optimistic that PH’s demonstrated sincerity in negotiations will be duly considered by BN in shaping its final decision.
“For Amanah, we continue to hope that the goodwill and spirit of consensus shown by PH will be appreciated and reflected in BN’s course of action,” he said in a statement today.
However, Khalid stressed that Amanah is already mobilising its machinery in preparation for all possible scenarios, including two- or three-cornered contests, should BN decide against cooperating with PH.
He was responding to recent remarks by UMNO Youth Chief, Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who has reportedly shown a preference for aligning with PAS in the state polls. Khalid described such a move as misguided, but clarified that Amanah’s preparations should not be interpreted as a warning or challenge.
“This is not a threat. It is simply a statement of fact. We must be ready for any eventuality,” he said.
Earlier, Khalid welcomed what he described as a clear explanation from UMNO Deputy President, Mohamad Hasan regarding ongoing seat negotiations between PH and BN for the Melaka and Johor elections. Mohamad had indicated that BN has yet to make a final decision on whether to cooperate with PH or to contest independently.
Khalid reiterated that the partnership forged after the 15th General Election has functioned effectively, marked by compromise and mutual respect.
“We view the cooperation established after the general election as constructive and sincere. There has been no betrayal, coercion or bullying throughout our collaboration. There is therefore no compelling reason for BN to disengage,” he said.
He added that Amanah finds it puzzling that BN appears hesitant to sustain the existing political alignment, emphasising that the ultimate decision rests with BN’s leadership.
-THE MALAYSIA VOICE
