GRS hopes coalition allies will be rational in GE16 seat talks

Sabah's ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition leader Hajiji Noor anticipates that the coalition will engage in seat negotiations for the upcoming 16th general election with its allies, including Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional, in the state government. Noor, who serves as the chief minister, expressed hope that the government's allies would remain rational during the negotiations and support candidates likely to win the election.

The GRS comprises several parties, such as Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), Parti Bersatu Sabah, Liberal Democratic Party, Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah, Upko, and Parti Cinta Sabah, collectively holding 36 seats out of 53 in the state assembly. Its coalition allies are BN with six seats, PH with two seats, Perikatan Nasional with one seat, and six independent candidates.

To prepare for the next election and strengthen its position, GRS aims to enhance its machinery and increase voter engagement at all levels. Additionally, Gagasan Rakyat has restructured itself into 25 parliamentary divisions, appointing new division leaders, including Hajiji for Tuaran, Masidi Manjun for Ranau, Arifin Arif for Kimanis, and James Ratib for Beluran.

In the 2022 general election, GRS secured six parliamentary seats, BN won seven, while PH claimed five. The next general election is mandated to take place by late February 2028, unless Parliament is dissolved earlier.