Warisan has cleared the way for Bersatu’s foray into Sabah with president Mohd Shafie Apdal saying it cannot stop the peninsula-based party from entering the state.
Shafie said this was as state laws allowed for new parties to be set up there.
The Sabah chief minister, however, assured that his party would continue to govern and develop the state in accordance with the mandate delivered by the people in the 14th general election.
“With regards to the entry of Bersatu to Sabah, we cannot stop them, or any other party for that matter. Our laws also allow for new parties to be formed.
“We are, however, very clear on our party’s stand and direction.
“My advice is not to be emotional, but for us to remain focused on developing the state for the benefit of the people of Sabah,” he said in a statement today.
On Friday (Feb 15), Bersatu chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced that Bersatu was venturing into Sabah to strengthen the Warisan-led government.
He stressed that it was not aimed at wresting control of the state from Parti Warisan Sabah, but said they were merely providing an avenue for former Umno members who do not wish to join Warisan.
Dr Mahathir pointed out that although Warisan was not part of Pakatan, they have agreed to let Warisan lead the coalition in Sabah in what he described as an “extraordinary arrangement”.
He said Bersatu would only accept former Umno members and those from other parties except Warisan, PKR, DAP and Amanah members.