Pejuang to contest a few seats in Johor, Negeri Sembilan

PETALING JAYA: Mukhriz Mahathir’s Pejuang will field candidates in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, though it does not intend to contest for many seats.

Mukhriz, the Pejuang president, said his party will be realistic about its capabilities when vying for seats in both state polls, Berita Harian reported.

“We are interested in contesting in Johor and Negeri Sembilan. At the same time, we are aware of our limitations, so we don’t plan to contest for many seats.

“We will approach the elections by cooperating with other parties. We hope not to clash with our partners, that’s why we’ve commenced negotiations,” the former Kedah menteri besar was quoted as saying.

Mukhriz said talks have started with three political parties so far, including Muda, which last held one state seat – Puteri Wangsa – in Johor.

He said Pejuang had also reached out to several other parties for discussions, but they were not interested.

“So we will have to compromise. We can’t force anyone. Some parties are rejecting talks, but some are considering our offer,” he said.

Pejuang, founded by Mukhriz’s father, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, has no seats to its name at present.

Last week, Mukhriz met his Muda counterpart, Amira Aisya Abd Aziz, for talks on cooperation in the Johor polls.

Pejuang has also been linked to a possible pact with PAS, Berjasa, and the Reset movement led by former Bersatu deputy president Hamzah Zainudin.