Sabah PKR is holding off on electoral deals with rival blocs as it wants to consolidate ties within Pakatan Harapan first. 

The state chapter’s chief, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, said seat-sharing talks with PKR’s federal allies would remain the party’s top priority in the coming weeks, even as speculation mounts over possible cross-coalition deals in Sabah’s volatile political landscape.

“We will continue our negotiations with Pakatan partners first and finalise seat arrangements.

“Only after that will we consider discussions with other parties like Barisan Nasional or GRS,” Mustapha said in Kota Kinabalu on Tuesday. 

The message comes as pressure builds on all political blocs to secure winnable seats ahead of the 17th Sabah state election, expected later this year. 

Gabungan Rakyat Sabah chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor had also indicated that they will initiate talks with Pakatan Harapan soon. 

Also, Mustapha’s comments signal that Sabah PKR intends to assert greater control over its electoral strategy, following a divisional reshuffle that saw several veteran leaders lose to lesser-known figures.

The party, which is still nursing internal wounds from party polls, is urging members to fall in line. 

“I’m appealing to everyone to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal. We cannot afford to be divided,” Mustapha said.

He warned that internal dissent would only weaken PKR’s position in upcoming negotiations, adding that party machinery must be strengthened immediately for the fight ahead.

“Those unhappy with the election results can lodge complaints through the proper channels. Every report will be audited by the central election committee,” he said.

Mustapha, who survived a three-cornered contest to retain his Kota Belud division chief post, maintained the polls were conducted fairly and in good order.

“I congratulate all the division leaders, old and new. Let’s get to work,” he added.

His statement follows days of speculation that PKR could seek a broader electoral understanding with GRS and BN, particularly after UMNO’s Sabah chapter signalled its openness to collaborating with Pakatan. – April 22, 2025