Joining coalitions might lead to the party compromising on their principles, which they believe are very important to them

by FAYYADH JAAFAR / pic by TMR FILE

PARTI Pejuang Tanahair maintains that it will not join or form any coalition in the upcoming Johor election.

Party president Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir (picture) cited conflict of values and principles between Pejuang and other political parties.

He added that joining coalitions might lead to the party compromising on their principles, which they believe are very important to them.

“We have our own principles and we don’t compromise on those principles. In fact, our values and principles are what our members stand for. It is also why the party can grow so fast,” he told reporters yesterday.

Mukhriz said while he is willing to talk to other parties about running in the election, he will not compromise on their core values.

“For example, Pakatan Harapan (PH) invited us to join their ‘big-tent’ coalition. But for now, we have no intention of offering our candidates to contest under PH,” he added.

Political analysts previously told The Malaysian Reserve that although Barisan Nasional (BN) seems to have the upper hand in the upcoming Johor state election, experts think new parties like Pejuang and Malaysian United Democratic Alliance could pose a threat if they form a coalition with others.

On strategy, Prof Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani said BN could apply its Melaka election strategy where although only 25% of its hardcore supporters voted for them, it was enough to win two thirds of majority.

The Election Commission will meet today to discuss important dates for the 16th Johor state election.

Meanwhile Mukhriz also stated his disappointment over the report that Pejuang chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had been falsely designated as the chairman of Perikatan Nasional (PN) during the latter’s introduction campaign in Johor.

“I would like to stress that Tun is the chairman of Pejuang and not the chairman of PN. He is not involved with any other political parties,” he said, adding that Dr Mahathir’s health is improving by the day.

For now, Pejuang will be contesting 42 out of the 56 DUN seats in Johor, but it depends on several factors, such as logistics and suitable candidates, among others.

He advises voters in the state of Johor to exercise their right to vote.

“I understand that many of us are tired of our political climate, but our country is a democracy. So, use your democratic right to vote and choose who you think can best serve the people of Johor,” he said, adding his hope that the people will consider Pejuang as their option.

“We are aware that we are an underdog party, but I believe in our ability to win and change Johor for the better,” he concluded.