Win-win formula to settle impasse

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Dr Rundi says SUPP, UPP, SPDP and Teras won’t be left behind, even if only 71 state seats contested

Dr Stephen Rundi

Dr Stephen Rundi

KUCHING: Sarawak BN has a formula to resolve the impasse between SUPP, UPP, SPDP and Teras in the event only 71 seats are contested in the 11th state election.

State BN secretary-general Dr Stephen Rundi told The Borneo Post recently that the problems between the four parties could be resolved and that no one would be ‘left behind’.

Following the passing of the State Assembly (Composition of Membership) Bill 2014 in last November’s State Legislative Assembly sitting, the Election Commission (EC) then proposed delimitation or delineation of the state constituencies.

The passing of the Bill allowed 11 new state seats to be created, increasing the total number of state seats from 71 to 82.

The delimitation proposal, however, was challenged by Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How in Kuching High Court which ruled in favour of See. EC then appealed and presently the case is now with the Appellate Court.

“As far as the state is concerned, our constitution has endorsed the eleven seats. Whether they will be included in the coming state election depends on the seat gazettement.

“We leave it for the court to decide. It is between the Election Commission (EC) and the court. If they are gazetted (before state election), we will take it. If not, we just have to go by 71 (seats), that is all,” said Dr Rundi. He said even with only 71 seats, state BN would have no problems.

“It is okay. They (SPDP, Teras, SUPP and UPP) have met with the chairman of BN (Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak). That one can be resolved, even with 71 (seats). What is important is BN must maximise victory with a thumping majority.

“We will work out whatever differences within the four parties. They will not be left behind.” He said though the formula was not finalised yet, a ‘win-win’ situation for all must be reached.

“As of now, we are not looking at sidelining anybody. At the end of the day, we will be able to sit down to make sure BN win, especially the urban seats.

“We are looking at how it can be done. We don’t want to cause any disharmony among the BN. We want to do it without making people feel that they are being victimised. That is the bottom line,” said the Public Utilities (Electricity and Communications) Assistant Minister.

According to Dr Rundi, two factors will determine candidacy for the coming state election – mutual understanding between BN component parties and winnability of candidates.

“We leave it for CM (Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem) to decide.”

On the issue of non-performing state assemblymen, Dr Rundi said the chief minister knew who they were and the matter would be looked into.