Zahid: BN to hold separate talks with two groups next week over Melaka state election cooperation

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 — Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the party will hold separate talks with two groups next week regarding potential political partnerships ahead of the Melaka state election. Zahid did not disclose the identities of these groups, leaving open the possibility that they could involve Perikatan Nasional (PN), Pakatan Harapan (PH) or other parties.

According to Sinar Harian, the BN headquarters arranged these meetings for different dates and times. Zahid emphasized that the discussions were still in their initial stages, and cautioned against premature disclosure of any information. He stated that the BN would inform Melaka BN chairman Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh once further discussions were underway.

When asked about the possibility of direct negotiations with PAS following PN's suspension by the Registrar of Societies, Zahid stated that the decision should be left to PN's chairman and secretary-general. However, he expressed a preference for engaging with a single party rather than a coalition that is no longer intact. This comment came as PN secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan reported that the coalition's suspension had not hindered its negotiations with BN, adding that the talks were more than halfway complete.

Zahid did not disclose which potential partner was closest to reaching an agreement with BN, emphasizing that the decision would be made after weighing the risks and benefits for the country and the parties in the coalition. The Melaka state assembly, consisting of 28 seats, was dissolved on September 23, setting the stage for the 16th state election.

The Election Commission is scheduled to meet on October 7 to determine the nomination and polling dates, which must be held within 60 days of the assembly's dissolution by November 22.