KUCHING: Party Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) also feels that any hopefuls who wish to contest in the Jepak by-election should drop the idea and allow Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to win the seat unopposed.
Its Deputy Information Chief Andy Lawrence said the selection of Iskandar Turkee as the coalition’s candidate, showed that GPS has made a careful and strategic choice to ensure success in the by-election, slated to be held on Nov 4.
“I encourage other hopefuls to consider this pragmatic approach and recognise the strength and support that GPS enjoys in the Jepak state constituency.
“By allowing GPS to retain the seat unopposed, we can foster stability, unity, and continuity in the representation of the people’s interests,” he said in a statement.
He said this in support of GPS chief whip cum Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof’s recent statement, that the party would still go on to win the seat even if there were to be a contest, and convincingly as well.
Thus, Fadillah said if there are any hopefuls, they should drop the idea (of contesting) and let GPS win unopposed. Otherwise, he said, it would be a waste of money.
“Keep the money, and save the energy. Wait for a much bigger election,” Fadillah said.
Andy said such an approach (to allow GPS win uncontested) would not only minimise unnecessary expenses but also preserve valuable resources that can be allocated towards addressing pressing needs and priorities within the state.
He said by focusing their collective efforts on a much larger election in the future, they can ensure the optimum utilisation of resources and maximise the impact of their campaigns.
“I firmly believe that supporting GPS to win the Jepak by-election unopposed is a sensible decision that saves valuable resources and emphasises the coalition’s strength and competence.
“It allows us to focus on the greater electoral challenges ahead and work towards the continued progress and prosperity of Sarawak and its people,” he added.
The Jepak by-election was called following the death of the incumbent, Datuk Talib Zulpilip of GPS on Sept 15.
The Election Commission (EC) has set nominations for Oct 21 with early voting to take place on Oct 31.
