Kota Kinabalu: The breakaway group of Parti Gemilang Anak Sabah has decided to join Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (PKAN) enmass to face the 17th State Election (PRN17).
Its leader Dato’ Jismit Japong brought along supporters and some 40 potential, signing a collaborative agreement with PKAN President Datuk Henrynus Amin.
Henrynus said the group brings tremendous value to the party.
“Jismit contributes not only new members, but also potential candidates, personal resources, and organisational experience that will strengthen our preparations for the polls.
“I have appointed as Jismit as our Election Director who will spearhead our candidates and oversee campaign coordination, candidate mobilisation, and machinery deployment throughout Sabah,” he said.
Jismit earlier declared he would be Chief Minister if PGAS won the coming State election.
Henrynus said the Gemilang Sabah group does not exist anymore as it is united with PKAN and will subscribe to the party vision, agenda and objectives.
Henrynus said PKAN is committed to contest at least 55 seats and most of the candidates have been identified.
It would contest mostly in the West and interior plus few seats in the East Coast including Chinese community areas.
“Our candidate line-up will reflect a balance of experienced leaders (above 50) and energetic youth (below 50), with a firm commitment to gender empowerment, ensuring at least 30 per cent of candidates are women,” he said.
Henrynus said he is undeterred with PKAN being labelled as a “mosquito party”.
“Even PBS started as a small party but after many years, it grew to become a significant and one of oldest in Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jismit said they joined PKAN as it had the same vision, mission and political agenda as the Group i.e to win the PRN17 and form a new State government.
“We agree that we do not want all matters concerning the State to be referred to Federal as the State is capable of making its own vital decisions,” he said.
Henrynus said PKAN would contest solo and not accept any collaboration with Malaya-based parties.