SABAH Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition is on shaky ground, with Sabah PKR refusing to recognise Datuk Ewon Benedick as state chairman and instead, holding talks with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Sabah PKR insists the post belongs to them, saying Benedick’s Upko is too new to lead the coalition.
“There’s never been a selection process — the Sabah chair has always been ours,” said PKR state secretary Sazaly Donol.
He also said it was unacceptable for a Kuala Lumpur-based Amanah leader to temporarily chair Sabah PH, describing it as “insulting” amid this crisis.
Sazaly also dismissed Benedick’s bid for the position, questioning how a small party like Upko could lead the coalition.
“We disagree with giving the chairmanship to Upko. If it were DAP, it would make more sense,” he said.
The leadership tussle comes as Sabah DAP grapples with its role in the GRS-led government.
Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said the party is still weighing its options following corruption allegations involving GRS leaders.
Phoong added that DAP would consult with PH partners before deciding whether to remain in the state government.
The uncertainty over Sabah DAP’s position further complicates an already fragile political situation.
Speculation is rife that Sabah PH’s internal dispute could weaken its influence in the state.
Sazaly however denied a crisis within Sabah PH but admitted that the leadership matter must be resolved by PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Benedick was appointed Sabah PH chairman on December 1, succeeding Datuk Christina Liew as the coalition’s second leader.
The first chairman was the late Datuk Lajim Ukin, who left PKR to form his party before the 2018 general election.
Benedick recently called for calm within the coalition, urging PH leaders to assess his performance over his two-year term.
He also emphasised that his appointment followed PH’s constitutional process and guidelines. - Jan 4, 2025
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