UPKO appreciates Sabah State Government's efforts to accommodate Sabah PH

22 October 2023

By AVV

KOTA KINABALU: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) has expressed appreciation for the decision made by Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) elected representatives to prioritiSe stability and support the Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) state government.

This decision has ensured that all individuals appointed under the GRS government will retain their respective positions.

Nelson W Angang, Secretary General of UPKO, highlighted the significance of this decision, particularly in light of the political crisis earlier this year that nearly resulted in the downfall of the state government.

He acknowledged the concerns raised regarding the distribution of government appointments among allies in the state government, as mentioned by UPKO President Datuk Ewon Benedick.

In response to the explanation provided by Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, Nelson expressed satisfaction with the decision made by Sabah PH elected representatives to prioritise stability and prevent the collapse of the GRS state government, which would have likely led to the termination of political appointments.

Nelson emphasised that UPKO understands the challenges faced by leaders who lost their source of income when they were in the opposition for over two years.

He acknowledged the struggles faced by grassroots leaders who remained loyal even during the toughest times in opposition.

He explained that the decision to support GRS instead of forming a new state government with BN and Warisan was driven by the desire to ensure political stability in the state and put an end to the culture of prematurely toppling governments before completing a full term.

UPKO, along with their partners in Sabah PH, namely PKR, DAP, and Amanah, appreciates the ongoing efforts made by the state government to find ways to involve Sabah PH in the administration of the state at various levels.

They also welcome the Chief Minister's statement regarding continued political cooperation between GRS and Sabah PH for the upcoming state election.

Nelson further mentioned that any parties or political coalitions expressing interest in working with Sabah PH are seen as positive developments, as it demonstrates that Sabah PH is recognised as an effective political coalition and a formidable ally.

However, he noted that there have been instances where certain divisions within GRS may have overlooked extending invitations to PH leaders for their respective division launches.

This has caused confusion among PH members regarding the commitment and sincerity of maintaining the political relationship between GRS and PH in the upcoming state election.

According to Nelson, Datuk Ewon Benedick view was sincere in his appreciation for Sabah PH's support and the intention of continued political cooperation must be translated and felt through a genuine alliance between GRS and Sabah PH, particularly at the grassroots level.

He emphasised that as coalition politics and the formation of coalition governments become the norm, it is crucial to be prepared to accommodate new approaches and ensure cooperation and respect between coalition partners, which will be the catalyst for the success of the current government and future governments.