KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Pas intends to contest in 20 state and four parliamentary seats in the next general election (GE14).
They include some of the 13 proposed new state seats, said Pas Election Director Datuk Mustafa Ali.
"In the 13th general election, Sabah Pas contested in nine state and two parliamentary seats, but since Sabah PKR and DAP have cut ties with us, we are free (to contest) as many seats as we want.
"Whether we accept the seats recommended, (that is up to the) Pas election centre, (which) will review the reasonableness of the proposal made by us, (after which), we will decide," he told reporters in a press conference here.
Although Pas’ branch here is not tied to any political party, Mustafa said they are ready to discuss collaborations, especially with Sabah-based parties.
On whether there is an ongoing discussion on tying-up with local opposition parties like Parti Warisan Sabah and Harapan, he said it is “only being done unofficially.”
"Otherwise, we will face the election on our own. We understand the scenario here, where (other opposition parties) want Sabah for Sabahans, and we are aware that the Sabah people will be more focused on parties close to them, but Pas is everywhere and we appeal to everyone.
"Our visit to Sabah (today) is to observe the political situation here, following (suggestions) that state elections could be held earlier. We want to ensure that our preparations are in place.
"We had a training course on Jan 28 in Kuala Lumpur, and all state representatives were present. Our machineries are ready, but of course, there are several aspects that need to be strengthened before the dissolution (of the state assembly and Parliament)," said Mustafa.