The two remaining Independent assemblypersons in Johor have joined Bersatu, bringing the total state seats held by Pakatan Harapan in the state to 39.

The two assemblypersons are former Umno representatives for Sedili, Rasman Ithnain, and Johor Lama, Rosleli Jahari.

Menteri Besar Osman Sapian, who is also Johor Bersatu chairman, confirmed the matter today.

Osman, who is also acting Johor Harapan chairperson, said the membership applications of Rasman and Rosleili were approved on Nov 19.

“With them joining Bersatu, there are no more Independent assemblypersons in the State Legislative Assembly. Two months ago, another independent assemblyperson, Alwiyah Talib of Endau, who formerly represented Umno, had also joined Bersatu,” he told reporters in Iskandar Puteri.

In the May 9 general election, Harapan won 36 out of 56 state seats in Johor, with DAP securing 14 seats, Parti Amanah Negara (nine), Bersatu (eight) and PKR (five), while BN won 19 seats and PAS, one.

However, three Umno assemblypersons quit the party on May 12 and became Independent representatives in the state assembly, leaving BN with only 16 seats.

- Bernama