Disappointed Abang Jo laments violation of no-contest promise by Bersatu

SARAWAK POLLS | Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairperson Abang Johari Openg was unable to hide his disappointment over Krian representative Ali Biju and three other Bersatu members deciding to contest as independents in the 12th Sarawak state election.

The Sarawak chief minister said that was clearly contrary to the promise that Bersatu had made.

“Of course, I’m disappointed. There was an agreement that no Bersatu (members) will stand in this election,” he said during a press conference yesterday, according to a report by The Star.

Abang Johari (above), who is also Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president, hinted that he expected Bersatu to take action against its rogue members.

Ali was elected under a PKR ticket but was one of those who defected during the Sheraton Move.

The others who will contest as independents running against GPS are Hulu Rajang Bersatu chief Siki Balarik (Belaga), Kota Samarahan Bersatu chief Ismawi Muhammad (Muara Tuang) and Ricky Enteri (Bawang Assan).

Abang Johari himself will be contesting the Gedong seat, where he will be challenged by Mohamad Sofian Fariz Sharbini of Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB), Kamal Bujang of Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) and Tomson Ango of Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK).

A total of 1,252,014 registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots on Dec 18. Early voting is on Dec 14.

For the first time, the ruling GPS government is going into the election wholly as a state coalition with its four component parties - Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) - since they quit the federal BN pact in 2018.

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