PH in touch with BN on seat talks for Melaka polls

Malaysia's opposition party Pakatan Harapan (PH) has engaged in discussions with the ruling coalition Barisan Nasional (BN) regarding potential agreements for the upcoming Melaka state election, according to PH communications director Fahmi Fadzil. The talks encompass not only the state polls but also the six parliamentary seats contesting in Melaka for the general election, set to occur by year-end.

PKR chief Adam Adli has been directly involved in negotiations with BN state chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh to determine suitable seats and candidates. Rauf has expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with any party. Initially, BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that BN and Perikatan Nasional would maintain their alliance for the Melaka polls following their victory in Negeri Sembilan.

However, this stance changed when Zahid suggested that BN intended to contest all 21 seats it won in the previous Melaka state election. Despite this, Zahid later indicated openness to negotiating seat allocation and exchanges, provided the process remained honest and sincere. Fahmi welcomed Zahid's openness to seat negotiations, emphasizing that discussions are ongoing and cover both the state polls and parliamentary elections.

He highlighted the importance of these talks in ensuring political stability in Melaka and safeguarding national interests. The final deliberations on these matters will be conducted by PKR vice-president Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and PH election director Amirudin Shari.