Johor’s last 2 independent reps join PPBM

(FMT) – The two remaining independent assemblymen in Johor have joined PPBM, bringing the total state seats held by Pakatan Harapan (PH) to 39.

The two assemblymen were former Umno representatives for Sedili, Rasman Ithnain, and Johor Lama, Rosleli Jahari.

Menteri Besar Osman Sapian, who is Johor PPBM chairman, confirmed the matter yesterday.

Osman, who is also acting Johor PH chairman, said Rasman and Rosleili’s membership applications were approved on Nov 19.

“With them joining PPBM, there are no more independent assemblymen in the state legislative assembly. Two months ago, another independent assemblyman, Alwiyah Talib of Endau, who formerly represented Umno, also joined PPBM,” he told reporters here.

In the May 9 general election, PH won 36 out of 56 state seats in Johor. DAP secured 14 seats; Amanah, nine; PPBM, eight and PKR, five. Barisan Nasional (BN) won 19 seats and PAS, one.

Three Umno assemblymen quit the party on May 12 and became independent representatives in the state assembly, leaving BN with only 16 seats.