DEPUTY minister of energy and natural resources and Bersatu member Ali Biju is defending his Krian seat in the Sarawak elections as an independent.
 
Ali, one of three PKR assemblymen sacked by the party over their role in the so-called Sheraton Move power coup, had earlier said he had not “given way” in the seat he had held for two terms.
 
His special officer, Vernon Kedit, confirmed his candidacy.
 
Ali had to stand as an independent as Bersatu had promised the party will not field any candidates in the elections.
 
The state ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak – a Bersatu ally at federal level – had refused to negotiate with him over the seat.
 
Nomination is about to close and Kedit said it could be a five-way fight for the Dayak-majority seat. – December 6, 2021.