KUCHING: Eleventh hour deals are ongoing which may see Datuk Ali Biju defending his seat as an Independent in the Krian state seat, according to a source familiar with the matter.

       Ali’s party, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia, has said it will sit out of the Sarawak polls but it appears that the two-term Krian assemblymen may do otherwise.

       “Talks are ongoing between Bersatu and GPS on allowing an exception.

       “How far talks have come is yet to be known,” said the source on Sunday (Dec 5).

       Ali could not be contacted for comments.

       Speculation that Ali may defend his seat as an Independent in the upcoming state polls was fuelled by a list, which went viral on several WhatsApp groups.

       On Friday (Dec 3), Ali denied surrendering his seat to make way for GPS and the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).

       Ali also said any decision to defend his seat would be discussed between Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Chief Minister Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

       Nomination for the Sarawak polls is set for Monday (Dec 6), with polling day scheduled on Dec 18.