GRS to lead seat talks, Hajiji says coalition preparing machinery ahead of GE16

KOTA KINABALU, Aug 29 — Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, which leads the Sabah government, will lead discussions on seat allocations for the upcoming general election with its government allies, including Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN). The coalition, composed of six parties, including PGRS, PBS, STAR, LDP, PHRS, PCS, and UPKO, will consider fielding candidates who have the highest chance of winning.

Hajiji emphasized the importance of strengthening the party's machinery at all levels and increasing voter engagement as preparation for the election. The party has begun restructuring its grassroots machinery, appointing 25 division chiefs responsible for parliamentary constituencies. Four new division chiefs were appointed, including Hajiji for Tuaran, Masidi Manjun for Ranau, Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif for Kimanis, and James Ratib for Beluran.

Division chiefs chosen for Kota Marudu, Putatan, Semporna, and Kalabakan were also announced. Hajiji stated that the restructuring aimed to reinforce the party's structure and expand membership, as well as enhance its capacity to engage with voters.