KOTA KINABALU: In a significant call for unity, Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (ANAK NEGERI) today urged local political parties in Sabah, not affiliated with national entities, to prioritise cooperation over competition in the upcoming general election.
This strategic appeal, initially made by Parti ANAK NEGERI President Datuk Henrynus Amin, was strongly echoed by Terence Tsen, Deputy President of Parti ANAK NEGERI and Party Chief for Sepanggar/Inanam.
Tsen revealed that the idea of smaller local parties collaborating or avoiding contests against each other was thoroughly discussed during a recent Parti ANAK NEGERI Supreme Council meeting.
“Sabahans are demanding local political parties work together rather than compete,” Tsen stated, “especially given the emergence of a political cartel involving the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Pakatan Harapan (PH), and potentially Barisan Nasional.”
He highlighted the current political uncertainties, noting that no single party or existing coalition is likely to secure an absolute majority of 37 seats to form the state government independently.
Tsen predicted the formation of a unity government involving both established and smaller political parties and even independents.
The recent Supreme Council meeting specifically identified parties like Parti ANAK NEGERI, Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (PKDM), Parti Impian Sabah (PIS), Parti Damai Sabah, Parti SEDAR, and Parti Perpaduan as contenders in Momogun majority seats.
Tsen emphasised that competition among these parties would only weaken their collective standing.
Tsen stressed that smaller political parties must be realistic about their strengths, advising them to focus efforts on areas where they have a strong base and a higher probability of success.
He warned that infighting among local parties would ultimately benefit incumbent powers, who would welcome a fractured opposition vote.
Drawing lessons from past elections, Tsen pointed to instances where victories were secured due to a split in the opposition vote.
This call for cooperation aims to prevent the dilution of votes among like-minded local parties, thereby increasing their collective chances of winning seats and gaining a stronger voice in the political landscape.
“Without such cooperation, the risk of vote-splitting remains high, ultimately undermining our potential to effect change and represent local interests effectively,” Tsen concluded.
Parti ANAK NEGERI believes that a united front among Sabah’s local parties is crucial to ensure their voices are heard and to maximise their impact in shaping the future of Sabah.
