JOHOR BARU: DAP has denied holding any discussions or proposing the formation of a unity government in the state.
Its secretary-general Anthony Loke said the debate about Johor Pakatan Harapan (PH) allegedly pushing for a unity government should be stopped.
He said DAP was currently comfortable playing its balancing role in the state assembly and supporting the current state government.
Loke said DAP respects the decree by sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, who declared that there should be no opposition in Johor, only balancing representatives.
"The fact remains that in the 2022 state election, Barisan Nasional (BN) won 40 seats and has comfortably formed the government.
"PH, which contested against BN at the time, secured 12 seats only, including one for Muda, whereas Perikatan Nasional (PN) won three seats.
"This is the reality that we (PH) must accept. That's why I hope the recent discussions regarding a unity government in Johor does not need to be brought up and should be stopped.
"DAP has never and will never beg for positions in the state government. If we want positions, we fight in the elections and win.
"My advice to DAP members is to be patient and play our role as assemblymen and members of parliament.
"Let's continue to serve, ensure that we are strong, and gain the support of the people so we can retain our seats," he said.
He was speaking at the Johor DAP Ordinary Convention held here today. Present were Johor DAP chairman Liew Chin Tong and his deputy Teo Nie Ching.
Previously, several parties within Pakatan Harapan (PH), including Amanah, had urged for the establishment of a unity government in Johor following BN's victory in the Mahkota by-election late last month.
This was subsequently echoed by BN leaders, including Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, leading to continued debate between PH and BN.
In a press conference, Loke, who is also transport minister, reiterated DAP's long-standing position that the party had never suggested the formation of a unity government in Johor.
"Johor has already formed its state government, and we do not want to disrupt its operations or complicate the situation.
"DAP has never even 'opened the book' on a unity government, so don't blame DAP because we have never suggested, raised or demanded it. No one should blame DAP," he said.
Regarding the form of cooperation between PH and BN in Johor for future general elections and the 16th State Election, Loke said it would be discussed when the time comes.
"It's not time for that yet. We will discuss it when the time comes at the federal level, including what the cooperation model will be, seat allocations, and so on.
"Whether we will collaborate or not, will be decided later," he said.