S'WAK POLLS Islamist party PAS is expected to clash with its former Pakatan Rakyat allies PKR and DAP, as well as offshoot Parti Amanah Negara, in at least 11 seats at the upcoming Sarawak state polls.
The Borneo Post today reported that PAS will clash with Amanah in five seats - Samariang, Muara Tuang, Sadong Jaya, Sebuyau and Beting Maro - based on its list of candidates announced earlier this month.
Amanah deputy president Salahuddin Ayub had on Friday announced the party's list of 13 candidates , including two Christians and two women.
Salahuddin reportedly said that Amanah will be up against Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) incumbents, but they also welcomed competition from PAS.
"Let them be the old party. We feel it is very important for Amanah to be part of Pakatan Harapan, to remain with a coalition that would help bolster our strength and garner relevance within the community," Salahuddin reportedly told a press conference in Kuching.
In response to Salahuddin, online portal Antarapos yesterday quoted PAS Sarawak state commissioner Jofri Jaraiee who said the move will only split votes for opposition parties and give an advantage to BN.
"We can't stop them (Amanah) from contesting but later we shall see how many (votes) they can get. Most important is that we have worked here (the seats PAS is contesting) for a long time," said Jofri.
He added earlier negotiations with PKR to avoid clashes had also failed.
The Borneo Post report also stated that PAS candidates will clash with PKR and others in Pantai Damai, Kakus, Jepak and Lambir.
From the party's list of candidates, it is also entering into multi-cornered fights with former ally DAP in Samalaju and Pujut.
Nomination day for the Sarawak state election is on April 25. Postal voting is on May 3 while polling is on May 7.
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