PETALING JAYA – Former Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) chief Christina Liew has distanced herself from the unfolding political dynamics in the state, saying she remains in the dark about recent developments and is currently observing events as they unfold. Speaking to the media amid speculation over shifting alliances following the announcement of a new electoral pact between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan, Liew expressed uncertainty about the implications, adding that she is simply watching the situation develop.
The move has prompted Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), the current ruling coalition, to threaten to contest the upcoming state elections independently. Liew, who serves as a state minister and represents the Api-Api constituency, acknowledged that political issues in Sabah are evolving daily and noted that Chief Minister Hajiji Noor has indicated that GRS’s official stance will only be revealed once the state assembly is dissolved. She reaffirmed that Sabah PH will continue performing its responsibilities as part of the state government regardless of any changes in alliances or leadership decisions.
The unity government coalition’s secretariat stated that seat negotiations in Sabah would be handled by the PH and BN leadership at the state level, but any final decisions would rest with national leaders. In response, Hajiji reiterated GRS’s preference for local parties to helm the state government, arguing they are better attuned to the unique cultural and developmental needs of Sabahans. Despite this, Sabah PH leaders have voiced interest in maintaining their collaboration with GRS while also exploring cooperation with Sabah BN, emphasizing that existing political stability at both the federal and state levels should be preserved and reinforced.