PH in touch with BN on seat talks for Melaka polls

Pakatan Harapan (PH) has engaged in multiple conversations with Barisan Nasional (BN) regarding potential alliances for the upcoming Melaka state election, according to PH communications director Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi revealed that PKR chief Adam Adli has been directly communicating with BN state chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh to negotiate seat allocations for the polls, which are anticipated by year-end. At the party level, PH is identifying suitable seats and candidates, engaging in discussions with various parties, including BN.

Ab Rauf has expressed willingness to engage in talks with any party, which PH has welcomed. PKR's Adam Adli informed Fahmi that several discussions had taken place between him and Ab Rauf. However, BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had initially stated that BN and Perikatan Nasional would maintain their alliance in Melaka, following their strong victory in the Negeri Sembilan state election.

This position appeared to change when Zahid mentioned that BN intended to contest all 21 seats it won in the previous Melaka state election, and PN claimed negotiations were ongoing.

Zahid later clarified that BN remained open to discussions on seat allocation and potential seat exchanges, provided negotiations were conducted honestly and sincerely. Fahmi acknowledged Zahid's openness to seat negotiations, despite previously asserting that PH would continue its cooperation with PN in Melaka. He emphasized that these talks encompassed both the state polls and the six parliamentary seats in Melaka for the general election, describing it as an opportunity to ensure political stability in the state and safeguard national interests.

Fahmi stated that further discussions would be handled by PKR vice-president Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and PH election director Amirudin Shari.