BARISAN Nasional (BN) is keeping to its decision to go solo in the next general election.

BN deputy chairman Mohamad Hasan said the coalition will work hard to win as many parliamentary seats as possible to form the government by itself.

However, Mohamad, who is also BN election director, said if the results show otherwise, it is prepared to negotiate with other parties to set up a strong and stable government for the people’s well-being.

“Although the people say we are going with this or that party in GE15, BN will still maintain its decision to go solo with the support of its coalition parties,” he said, referring to the next general election.

“We will see after the election if we win and could form a government by ourselves… thank God. If not, the results of the party will determine who we need to negotiate with for a strong government.”

Mohamad said among the criteria set for the selection of the party to form a coalition are the points of similarities and struggle agenda with BN. 

It is to ensure understanding among them to create a stable political environment in the country, he said.

“We do not want the people to continue being victims of political upheavals… it’s enough. It has been four years, we are still not aware of where we are going while countries more adversely affected by Covid-19 compared to us have leaped in their economic performance as many investors invested due to political stability,” he said at the launching of Terengganu BN’s election machinery in Pantai Penunjuk, in Kijal today.     

Earlier, a local media report featuring political analysts indicated that no coalition will garner the majority in the next polls and an alliance of winning parties is needed to form the central government.

In another development, Mohamad said the application of Parti Bangsa Malaysia to join BN will be discussed in the BN Supreme Council meeting on Monday.

“The matter has to be decided with a consensus. All parties have to unanimously agree,” he said.

Also present were BN secretary-general Zambry Abdul Kadir and Terengganu BN chairman Ahmad Said. – Bernama, August 13, 2022.