PKR Leader Claims Sabah PH Chairmanship Belongs to Party
The recent ousting of Christina Liew as Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman has sparked controversy, with a Sabah PKR leader claiming that the post rightfully belongs to the party.
Background
Liew was ousted as the Sabah PH chairman, a post she held since 2017, after losing to Upko president Ewon Benedick by three votes on December 1. However, there is speculation that Liew could return to head the state chapter.
PKR Leader’s Claim
According to a Sabah PKR leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the post should have never been contested in the first place. The leader claimed that the election held earlier this month was the first time a poll was held since the Sabah PH was formed in 2017.
Traditionally, the Sabah PH components, namely, PKR, DAP, Upko, and Amanah would name a PKR leader to chair the coalition’s state chapter. The source said, "Sabah is led by PKR, so even if the chairman is replaced, it should still be someone from PKR."
Formula for Leadership Structure
The source also claimed that the leadership structure in Sabah PH is based on party allocations. "Christina Liew has moved on, but we are asking for clarification because the leadership structure in Sabah PH is based on party allocations," said the source.
Election Results
The source also claimed that the election held by Sabah PH was an attempt to sideline PKR. Sabah Pakatan Harapan Youth leaders, however, have called on the coalition’s component parties to respect the election results.
Speculation of Liew’s Return
On Friday night, the Api Api assemblyman was reported as saying that discussions were being held on her possible return as the Sabah PH chairman, adding that talks were held with PKR president Anwar Ibrahim and members of the state leadership council.
Reactions
Meanwhile, Sabah DAP committee member Chan Foong Hin emphasised the importance of respecting the principles of democracy. "Every political party goes through elections, and regardless of the outcome, we must honour the democratic process," he said.
Chan, the Kota Kinabalu MP, urged coalition members to focus on the future rather than on internal disputes and leadership changes. "It’s time for us to move on and concentrate on preparing for the upcoming state elections. We have important work ahead, and engaging in internal disputes will only hinder our progress," he said.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Liew’s ousting as Sabah PH chairman highlights the importance of respecting the principles of democracy and the need for coalition members to focus on the future rather than internal disputes. The outcome of the election remains to be seen, but it is clear that the leadership of Sabah PH will be a crucial factor in the upcoming state elections.
FAQs
Q: Who was ousted as Sabah PH chairman?
A: Christina Liew was ousted as Sabah PH chairman after losing to Upko president Ewon Benedick by three votes on December 1.
Q: Who claimed that the Sabah PH chairmanship belongs to PKR?
A: A Sabah PKR leader claimed that the post rightfully belongs to the party, citing a formula that had been agreed on and adhered to by its components.
Q: What is the speculation surrounding Liew’s return as Sabah PH chairman?
A: There is speculation that Liew could return to head the state chapter, with discussions being held on her possible return as the Sabah PH chairman.