MIRI – The outrage at the apparent post-election vendetta by ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak has not died down, with Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) calling it “deplorable”.
Miri PSB chief Bruce Chai said such “political oppression” should not be tolerated, as denying salaries and allowances due to political differences is “evil”.
It was reported that Assistant State Minister (Education, Innovation and Talent Development) Datuk Francis Harden allegedly threatened to withhold salaries and allowances for opposing longhouse chiefs.
Chai said political revenge is the norm for ruthless dictators, not in a democratic society.
“Now that GPS has won the state elections, it should focus on the most important issues at hand.
“The most crucial issues now are our economy, reviving businesses and industries, job creation, and helping families affected by Covid-19 infections and deaths.
“GPS leaders must set their sights on these key issues, not continue their political oppression post-election.”
Meanwhile, Bersih Sarawak chairwoman Ann Teo also slammed Harden for threatening those who did not support GPS.
“In a democratic society, the voters have the legal right to choose which political party they want.
“To punish them for exercising their right to choose is definitely an act of oppression.”
Teo said GPS leaders must be reminded that salaries and allowances for the chiefs are from taxpayers.
“The money from the state coffers does not belong to GPS leaders. They have no right to withhold any payments, especially not for political motives.”
Previously, Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak Baru president Bobby Williams said Harden allegedly said at the Sri Aman Iban Community Leaders Association gathering that it was absurd for unsupportive community leaders to still get their monthly pay from the state government.
“This is going to be an act of victimisation by GPS with political vindictiveness against others. After having won big in the state elections using whatever means possible, GPS is now targeting those who did not support them.
“This smacks of the attitude of politically autocratic rulers with absolute authority. GPS has no right to deny community chiefs their allowances and salaries.” – The Vibes, January 27, 2022
