Analysts see STAR keeping options open on Warisan, KDM ties
STAR president Jeffrey Kitingan's denial of formal talks with Warisan and KDM is seen as being more about tactical flexibility than ruling out cooperation ahead of the next general election.
Analysts believe that despite STAR's denial of formal talks with Warisan and KDM, the two parties could still form a political alliance. STAR president Jeffrey Kitingan clarified during a party gathering that there were no official discussions with either party. However, Lee Kuok Tiung and Awang Azman Pawi argue that STAR may be keeping its options open for tactical reasons, such as assessing its grassroots support and negotiating power in a potential general election.
STAR founder Jeffrey Kitingan has emphasized the importance of strengthening its own position before entering any coalition, warning against becoming dependent on another party's strength. Cooperation with Warisan and KDM could benefit STAR by reducing competition among local parties, preventing vote-splitting, and building a stronger Sabah bloc in the state's 25 parliamentary seats.
However, the potential alliance could also bring challenges, such as overcoming deep-seated political rivalries between Kitingan and Warisan president Shafie Apdal, and determining who would be appointed Chief Minister or parliamentary leader.
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- Analysts see STAR keeping options open on Warisan, KDM ties freemalaysiatoday.com
