Kota Kinabalu: Shafie also disputed SAPP President Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee that no party can single-handedly secure a comfortable majority of the 73 state seats, saying Yong himself was once part of PBS when it governed Sabah successfully.
He said the decision ultimately rests with Sabahans.
“PBS could govern for 10 years. During Berjaya’s time, they could for 10 years. So we leave it to the people.
“Even in the United States, Democrats, Republicans can do it. PAS a single party can govern Kelantan. If they can, why not we?” On the petition for Sabahans living in Peninsula Malaysia to be allowed postal voting, Shafie said “They should be able to exercise their right because they are in Malaysia. Ensure that they can vote.
“They (Election Commission) need to look into it because there are a lot of Sabahans there. We cannot afford to transfer all of them here and I think the right must be granted to them,” he said.
He suggested comparing with other countries like the United Kingdom where postal voting is available, though he acknowledged that those in Kuala Lumpur might find it easier to fly back than those stationed overseas.
“If possible, perhaps do not make the flight tickets too costly. Look into how we can get them back to Sabah to vote because they also have work to do. Perhaps consider giving them some leave, relaxed somewhat to enable them to come down to vote.
“What is important is that we should encourage everyone who is eligible to vote to exercise their rights. Just make sure there are no phantom voters. We will double check to ensure there are no phantom voters,” he said.