SEMENYIH: Barisan Nasional (BN) has yet to make any decision on its candidates for the upcoming by-elections in the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state seat, which fell vacant following the death of Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin earlier this month.
BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition is prioritising political negotiations and consultations with other parties to safeguard public interest and maintain political stability in Sabah.
He explained that as a component of the Unity Government, BN is open to discussions not only with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) but also with other parties forming the Sabah state government.
“BN is now part of the Unity Government. Therefore, we do not rule out the possibility of engaging in discussions with GRS and other state government parties regarding the vacant seats,” he said.
Zahid was speaking to reporters after attending the Indian Progressive Front (IPF) General Assembly held at Setia Ecohill on Sunday.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that BN is mindful of voter fatigue following a series of elections, particularly the recent Sabah state election, and believes that negotiations offer a more responsible and pragmatic approach.
“We recognise that the people are tired. Too much time has been spent on elections, and stability should now be our priority,” he said.
The Election Commission is scheduled to hold a special meeting on Tuesday to manage the by-election process following Bung Moktar’s passing on December 5.
During the 17th Sabah state election, Bung Moktar, who was also BN Sabah chairman, narrowly retained the Lamag seat with a slim majority of 153 votes in a six-cornered contest.
Zahid also pointed out that the relatively short remaining parliamentary term, estimated at a maximum of 24 months, further reinforces BN’s emphasis on negotiations rather than political confrontation.
“If negotiations can address all considerations related to candidacy, then that approach should take precedence,” he said.