KOTA KINABALU – With Sabah’s state election fast approaching, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor acknowledged that Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) may face seat overlaps, though he stressed that both coalitions remain aligned in their partnership.
The Gagasan Rakyat president said that all candidate selections have been finalised and described any potential seat clashes as minor, a reflection of the natural dynamics within a coalition of multiple parties.
“Perhaps there will be some overlaps here and there, but cooperation with PH continues. Our candidates are confirmed — we’re simply waiting for the official announcement,” he said after the Felo SMJ 4.0 ceremony at Menara Kinabalu.
Hajiji also cautioned party members against disunity and reminded them that leadership should not be driven by personal ambition.
“We didn’t expel anyone; they left on their own. Those who walk away because they’re not chosen as candidates don’t have the resilience needed in leadership,” he remarked.
He later confirmed that the candidate announcement would likely be held around November 11 or 12, while the GRS manifesto would be unveiled shortly after nomination day.
Political observers see Hajiji’s statement as an attempt to manage expectations within the coalition amid speculation of internal lobbying and last-minute seat negotiations between GRS and PH components.