The Youth wing of Parti Amanah Negara has reminded Pakatan Harapan leaders on the need to uphold integrity of the federal opposition coalition as it prepares to face the upcoming twin by-elections in Sungai Besar and Kuala Kangsar.

Its chief Sany Hamzan said in a statement that ongoing negotiations between Harapan parties on its candidates for the two seats would be the most critical test of the rakyat’s faith in its viability to replace BN and implement overall reform to the country’s administration.

“Like it or not, the clash between Pakatan Harapan parties in the recent Sarawak state elections should remain as history and not be repeated by any parties in the coalition,” he said in reference to Harapan’s devastating loss and the eventual clash between DAP and PKR in six seats.

Sany, however, acknowledged the likelihood of a three-cornered fight between Harapan, BN and Islamist-party PAS, with support from its third-force bloc with Parti Ikatan Bangsa Malaysia.

“The rakyat are not fools. It is difficult for them to accept a leader who disappointed the majority of the people by allowing Pakatan Harapan parties to clash in Sarawak, now ‘acting innocent’ and trying to prevent a three-cornered fight with BN and PAS.

“What is this leader’s real political message? Continue trying to disrupt Pakatan Harapan or what?,” said Sany (photo) who did not mention any names.

Sany, meanwhile, also stressed that Amanah should be given the chance to contest in Sungai Besar and Kuala Kangsar.

Among others, he cited the constituencies’ Malay-majority composition as being an ideal platform for Amanah to expand Harapan’s influence in the areas.

In making its final decision, Sany also said Harapan should take into consideration the candidate’s commitment to reject Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, while at the same time not giving space for ‘Najib friendly’ independent candidates to contest.

“We have confidence in Selangor Menteri Besar Azmin Ali’s ‘big heart’ to help Amanah achieve victory in P093 (Sungai Besar).

“Several Keadilan leaders have already held meetings with its local machinery and we believe they will issue instructions to help assist Amanah (during the campaign),” he said.

Despite no candidates having been announced so far, Azmin have since yesterday temporarily moved himself to stay in Sungai Besar.

Amanah president Mohamad Sabu had previously said the party will only meet to discuss matters related to the two by-elections on May 15.

The Election Commission today fixed June 5 as nomination day for both by-elections while polling will be on June 18.