MIRI – Again, there is no Sarawakian deputy prime minister despite the speculated lobbying by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), criticised the state’s PKR chapter.
Sarawak PKR information chief Abun Sui Anyit said GPS leaders must answer for this.
“GPS leaders from Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) and Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) have been vocal in asking for the DPM post to be given to a GPS MP.
“They had even proposed specific names to the prime minister for his consideration. GPS was clearly lobbying for the post.
“They behaved like they were the kingmakers. Are they kingmakers or ‘king beggars’?” Abun shot back.
“GPS leaders were very vocal in asking for the DPM post and for more cabinet posts.
“Let the people hear how vocal they dare to be now that GPS did not get what it asked for,” he told The Vibes.
GPS’ Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof remains senior works minister, while Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar is now minister for Parliament and law, Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi (domestic trade and consumer affairs) and Datuk Nancy Shukri (tourism, arts and culture).
Meanwhile, GPS said it is satisfied with the cabinet line-up.
“Under the circumstances that the country is in, the prime minister has decided not to have a deputy prime minister,” Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau told The Vibes.
“The PM has his reasons, so we in GPS respect that decision. There have been many critical messages circulating all over Sarawak, including criticisms against the government and GPS over the new cabinet line-up.
“These sorts of political attacks must stop; they don’t do any good.
“Stop attacking GPS over the cabinet. Give the new set-up a chance.
“GPS still has ministers in the new cabinet, so let’s give them time to prove themselves.”
While GPS tried to request for more posts, including that of the deputy prime minister, the final decision lies with Ismail Sabri, he said. – The Vibes, August 27, 2021