Bersatu grassroots lack directive to back PKR-led coalition

Bersatu has not issued any grassroots directive ordering members to support the Pakatan Harapan coalition, according to the party's deputy president, despite earlier suggestions of closer alignment between the two political blocs.

The statement clarifies the extent of coordination between Bersatu and PH following weeks of speculation about deepening ties between the Bumiputera-focused party and the ruling coalition. While Bersatu and PH have cooperated on certain parliamentary matters, the relationship remains largely transactional rather than formally integrated.

The Bersatu deputy president acknowledged, however, that PH leadership has adopted a respectful stance toward its supporters, refraining from discouraging them from voting for Bersatu candidates in seats where the coalition has chosen not to field nominees. This arrangement allows Bersatu members to pursue electoral gains in designated constituencies without direct opposition from PH's political machinery.

The development suggests that while the two parties maintain pragmatic cooperation on select issues, Bersatu continues to operate with considerable independence from PH's strategic direction. Such flexibility has become increasingly important for Bersatu as it seeks to maintain distinct party identity while benefiting from informal understandings with the current government.