UPKO will not support any attempt to replace Government

26 December 2023

By Nabalu News Journalist

PENAMPANG: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) President, Datuk Ewon Benedick strongly opposes any unconstitutional attempts to replace the current Unity Government.

As the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, he emphasised that the existing government was formed through legitimate negotiations and should be upheld until the end of its term or the dissolution of Parliament.

As long as he holds the position of UPKO's President, he affirmed that he will not endorse any endeavours to replace the established government, which was formed through proper negotiations and discussions.

Speaking to reporters at the Christmas Open House and social gathering event at the Penampang Cultural Centre today, he said he welcomed the initiative of cooperation among Sabah leaders, including the merger of political parties, and wishes the best for the collaborative efforts between Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR).

He highlighted the significance of unity and cooperation among political parties in Sabah, emphasising that it is crucial for the well-being of the people, regardless of whether it is at the state or national level.

"I warmly welcome any collaborative initiative, not limited to political party mergers but also cooperation within the government itself. I sincerely hope that the aspirations of Party Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and STAR will be fulfilled," he expressed.

He acknowledged the scrutiny from the public, as discussions on merging community-based parties in Sabah have taken place in the past. He expressed his hope that this cooperation will materialise and that, one day, he will be a part of the broader alliance of parties in Sabah.

He further emphasised that unity and cooperation should be founded on the development needs and rights of Sabah as outlined in the Malaysian Federal Constitution, with a focus on amplifying the voices of Sabah leaders.

Ewon, who is also the Member of Parliament for Penampang, welcomes the cooperation of leaders from various parties in Sabah for the benefit of the people.