SAPP Hits Back at Bersatu’s Pressure

Sabah Progressive Party Refuses to be Cowed

The Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) has hit back at Bersatu vice-president Ronald Kiandee’s pressure to decide between remaining in Perikatan Nasional (PN) or Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), describing the party’s stance as “offensive branding”.

SAPP deputy president Edward Dagul reiterated the party’s stand that no external party should force SAPP to decide on its alliances or coalition memberships.

“Does Kiandee think that by uttering offensive brandings we will be cowered into hastening our decision?” Dagul said in a statement.

“SAPP has been consistent in the political struggle for Sabah rights and autonomy under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and is willing to work together with any like-minded parties and politicians,” he added.

“Whatever we decide will be with Sabah’s interest in mind, and any announcement on this coalition membership matter will be made at the appropriate time and forum,” Dagul said.

SAPP’s Stand on Sabah Election

Dagul also urged PN to stay away from the next Sabah election, saying SAPP’s stand was that only Sabah parties should contest in the state polls.

He cited how Bersatu opted not to contest in the 2021 Sarawak election, with Ali Biju withdrawing from defending his Krian seat as an independent candidate to appease Gabungan Parti Sarawak.

“Why can’t Bersatu take the lead and show an example to other Malaya parties to also opt out of the Sabah state election?” Dagul asked.

SAPP’s Consistency in Political Struggle

SAPP has been a founding member of GRS, and has consistently fought for Sabah’s rights and autonomy. The party has been a vocal advocate for the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which it believes is crucial for Sabah’s development and progress.

Conclusion

SAPP’s stance on this issue is clear: no external party should pressure it to decide on its alliances or coalition memberships. The party will make its decisions based on what is best for Sabah, and will not be swayed by external pressure or rhetoric.

FAQs

Q: What is SAPP’s stance on its alliances and coalition memberships?
A: SAPP is willing to work together with any like-minded parties and politicians, but will make its decisions based on what is best for Sabah.

Q: Why is SAPP urging PN to stay away from the next Sabah election?
A: SAPP believes that only Sabah parties should contest in the state polls, and is urging PN to respect Sabah’s autonomy and decision-making powers.

Q: What is SAPP’s position on the Malaysia Agreement 1963?
A: SAPP believes that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 is crucial for Sabah’s development and progress, and is a key factor in the party’s political struggle for Sabah’s rights and autonomy.