Parti Sarawak Bersatu deputy president Jerip leaves party

KUCHING: Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) deputy president Datuk Dr Jerip Susil (pic) has resigned from the party with immediate effect.

Dr Jerip, who is Mambong assemblyman, said he made the decision after consulting his supporters and people in his constituency.

"It has been a painful decision for me. But it has to be made as I am fully aware and convinced that only Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg has the vision, commitment and programmes to bring even better development and progress to our rural constituencies," he said in a statement dated July 10 which was released on Thursday (July 11).

Dr Jerip also pledged his full support to Abang Johari, saying the Chief Minister was steadfast and committed in protecting Sarawak's rights and interests.

In addition, he said his decision to quit PSB was made in the "greater interest" of the unity of the Bidayuh community.

"I can then contribute toward solidifying and consolidating Bidayuh unity within the Sarawak government," Dr Jerip, a Bidayuh, said.

Formerly known as United People's Party (UPP), PSB is the splinter party of Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP).

Although PSB is not a member of the ruling GPS coalition, its president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh is Second Finance Minister while Dr Jerip is Assistant Transportation Minister.

Recently, there were calls for the PSB leaders to be dropped from the state Cabinet following accusations that the party was recruiting members from GPS component parties to join it.

GPS comprises Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), SUPP, Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).