Wanita GRS rejects any move to include BN in Sabah govt

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 1): The Women’s Movement of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has firmly rejected any proposal to bring Barisan Nasional (BN) into the Sabah state government, which is currently led by parties under the GRS coalition.

In a statement issued today, the GRS women’s wing said its position is based on several key considerations, beginning with the clear mandate given by the people of Sabah in the recently concluded state election.

“The people have given a clear mandate to GRS to lead the Sabah State Government. This trust must be respected without altering the foundation of the coalition chosen by the rakyat,” the statement read.

The movement emphasised the importance of stability and continuity in leadership, stating that the state government must be safeguarded by a consistent and stable lineup, free from old political conflicts that could disrupt Sabah’s development agenda.

To avoid renewed political instability, the women’s wing cautioned against including BN in the new government, noting the coalition’s past inconsistency in political support.

“Inviting BN into the new government carries the risk of internal conflict and could disrupt an administration that is just beginning to stabilise,” it said.

The statement also underlined that GRS already has a strong and stable position with its existing composition under the GRS Plus government, comprising 29 GRS seats, five Independent seats, three UPKO seats, one Pakatan Harapan seat, one KDM seat, as well as support from two STARSabah seats.

“GRS is now stronger and more stable with its current components. The new government does not require partners who may bring old issues or unnecessary political baggage,” it added.

In terms of women’s aspirations, Wanita GRS reaffirmed its consistent struggle for a more progressive, transparent and people-oriented political culture.

The inclusion of any party previously associated with instability, it said, does not align with the aspirations of Sabah’s women who seek a clean, efficient administration focused on the welfare of the people.

In this regard, Wanita GRS called on all party machinery, members and the people of Sabah to stand firmly with the GRS leadership to defend political stability in the state and ensure that the people’s development agenda continues without disruption.

The women’s wing also pledged its unwavering support to the GRS government in ensuring Sabah continues to move forward for the benefit of current and future generations.