PBS PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT FOR BN CANDIDATES IN KINABATANGAN, LAMAG

PENAMPANG, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) has expressed full support and an unwavering commitment to helping secure victory for the two Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates in the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections.

Its acting president, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, who is also Deputy Chief Minister I, said the party is working closely with the BN machinery to ensure both seats are retained in the interest of political stability.

“PBS remains consistent in its political stance and will give its full support to BN candidates in the Lamag state and Kinabatangan parliamentary by-elections.

“This cooperation is in line with the spirit of political stability and support for the MADANI government,” he said in a statement after chairing PBS’ first Supreme Council meeting of the year at the party’s headquarters here today.

Joachim also stressed that PBS would not compromise on any actions that run counter to the party’s decisions.

“Should any member defy or act against party directives, the matter will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken,” he said.

The Kinabatangan by-election features a three-cornered contest involving Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar (BN), Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman (Warisan) and Goldam Hamid (Independent), while the Lamag seat is a straight fight between Mohd Ismail Ayob (BN) and Mazliwati Abdul Malek (Warisan).

The by-elections were called following the death of the incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, 66, on Dec 5 last year.

Commenting on the meeting, Joachim said discussions focused on the party’s strategic direction in strengthening PBS’ role as a relevant local party and in continuing to champion the interests of the people of Sabah.

“PBS will continue to play a constructive role in the state and federal political landscape, and strengthen cooperation within the coalition (Gabungan Rakyat Sabah – GRS) for the stability and progress of Sabah,” he said.

-- BERNAMA