WHEN Datuk Seri Christina Liew took up the role of Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman in 2017, she inherited a coalition struggling to solidify its footing in a state dominated by established political forces and fragmented alliances.
Her tenure marked a challenging period as Sabah PH sought to establish itself as a viable alternative for Sabahans amid a politically dynamic landscape.
Liew's appointment came after the departure of the late Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin, the coalition’s first chairman, who led Sabah PH during its formative years.
Taking over the reins, Liew faced significant challenges in uniting the coalition’s component parties — PKR, DAP, and Amanah — while dealing with criticism over her leadership style.
She also faced a coup and opposition from Sabah PKR which she was the chairman and ultimately replaced last year by Datuk Sangkar Rasam.
Liew has been with PKR for 25 years.
First female leader to helm the position
Growing resentments within Sabah PKR also saw Rasam replaced later by Datuk Mustapha Sakmut who is the Sepanggar MP.
As the first female leader to helm the position, Liew encountered resistance within the coalition.
There were internal disagreements over her leadership, particularly from faction leaders within her party.
Reflecting on her tenure, Liew said, “Sabah PH has always been committed to serving the people and advancing their rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
“I am confident that the new leadership under Ewon Benedick will continue this mission and bring fresh energy to the coalition.”
However, she also acknowledged the challenges ahead for the coalition, emphasising, “We must ensure Sabah PH is prepared to face the state polls while also strengthening our party’s internal machinery.”
Since its inception, Sabah PH has often relied on senior politicians to lead the state chapter, a pattern that has drawn criticism especially from its emerging younger, dynamic leaders.
After Lajim, who helmed Sabah PH during its early days, Liew’s appointment was seen as a continuation of this trend.
While such leaders brought experience, their tenure often exposed a disconnect with the grassroots, as voters in Sabah increasingly leaned toward local political parties that prioritised regional issues.
The coalition’s dependence on experienced figures also highlighted internal divisions.
Leadership disputes, particularly within PKR, saw calls for intervention from the central leadership, which further strained the coalition's autonomy and credibility in Sabah.
Benedick’s appointment seen as strategic move
Benedick’s recent appointment as Sabah PH chairman is seen as a strategic move, aligning the coalition with Sabahans’ preference for locally-led leadership.
Newly-appointed Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe praised Benedick’s leadership.
“Today marks a significant step forward for Sabah PH as a major political coalition. Benedick’s leadership brings a fresh and hopeful direction for the people of Sabah.”
Phoong added, “It’s heartening to see younger, dynamic leaders stepping up. Ewon represents a new era for Sabah politics.”
Despite the challenges, Liew’s leadership strengthened Sabah PH’s position in the state, particularly on key issues such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Her tenure highlighted the need for a more inclusive and cohesive leadership model that prioritises local voices and addresses internal divisions.
As Benedick takes the helm, Sabah PH faces the opportunity to redefine its strategy and present a united front in the upcoming state election.
Whether the coalition can break from its reliance on senior leaders and empower a new generation of leadership will determine its future relevance in Sabah’s evolving political landscape. – December 1, 2024
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