'Bersatu's seat but decision lies with PN supreme council'
PN prioritises consensus, winnable candidates for by-elections
SHAH ALAM - The ultimate decision regarding Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia's (Bersatu) potential contestation of all six parliamentary seats in the event of vacancies will rest with the Perikatan Nasional (PN) Supreme Council.
Bersatu Information Chief Datuk Razali Idris asserted that these seats fundamentally belong to the party, having been allocated during the 15th General Election (GE15).
"While all six seats are held by Bersatu, the decision lies with the PN Supreme Council.
"On Pas Vice President Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah's statement, it holds true because, in Terengganu and Kelantan, all PN candidates contest under the Pas logo, indicating Pas's candidacy," he said.
Razali made these remarks in response to Amar's indication that Pas is prepared to vie for the Jeli and Gua Musang by-elections should they become available.
Meanwhile, Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi affirmed that Barisan Nasional will also present candidates in all six parliamentary constituencies currently held by Bersatu MPs supporting the Prime Minister, should a by-election occur.
On another front, Pas Deputy President Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man expressed that it is premature to determine which party should contest in all seats.
He stressed PN's intention to conduct consultations on candidates and machinery in the event of a vacancy.
"We'll wait and observe; it's too early to comment. Nevertheless, PN will engage in discussions on candidates and machinery.
"Our priority is to fortify consensus and collaboration, prioritising winnable candidates within PN," he elaborated.
Meanwhile, Central Pas Committee member Khairil Nizam Khirudin affirmed PN's commitment to defending the six seats in question.
"PN will undoubtedly strive to safeguard these seats. With divine will, we aim to uphold victory," he said.