Ewon: Political Integrity and common Sense in addressing Shortcomings

23 Sept 2023

By AVV

KOTA KINABALU: Surmounting obstacles in political development requires commitment and integrity.

United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) president Datuk Ewon Benedick said political growth came from commitment and hard work.

According to him, shortcomings when approached properly could become an advantage.

He said he had stuck with his party as he believed in its struggle even when the going was tough.

"I could have left and be affiliated elsewhere, but I chose to stay," Ewon who is the Kadamaian State Assemblyman stressed.

Addressesing UPKO community leaders and members in Suhap Piromutan Kg.Pakuh Matunggong, he stressed that political integrity was challenged when 'we have nothing'.

He said Kadamaian Constituency served as an example of political achievement and success.

Ewon through UPKO had retained his seat there since 2018 to this day, going through a phase where he didn't have any governmental appointment.

His constituents had upheld him with a majority of 3294 votes in the last election.

"The success of Kadamaian can be achieved in other constituencies too such as Bengkoka, Matunggong, Bandau and Tandek, among others," he stressed.

He commended UPKO community leaders and members who had spoken of reaching out in their bid to strengthen party membership.

He lauded an announcement of 100 new members from Matunggong area.

During the gathering at Suhap Piromutan Kg.Pakuh, he answered questions about the withdrawal of the originating summon (OS).

"To understand it, you have to read the original transcript which is available online," he said, adding that he had received a lot of criticism about the statement.

"When confronted with accusations and possible unwarranted consequences, it is imperative that we refrain from acting impulsively or emotionally," he emphasised.

Again he attributed such action as common sense that meant applying logical reasoning, practical judgment, and an understanding of real-world implications to make decisions.

Ewon is the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) and Penampang Member of Parliament.