Sabah political leaders unfazed by developments in KL

Business as usual: (From left) Tangau, Lu and Bung Moktar have questioned the timing and veracity of Anwar’s claim.

KOTA KINABALU: Political leaders campaigning in the Sabah election seem unfazed by the developments in Kuala Lumpur and have adopted a wait-and-see stance as they continue on their trails.

Several leaders said they were not sure if PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim actually has the numbers as he claims.

Sabah Barisan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said with two days before voters head to polling booths, Anwar’s claim was nothing but a political ploy.

“It is impossible that he has obtained the majority. Why is he announcing it now with the election on Saturday?

“I believe Anwar is trying to strengthen Warisan Plus’ efforts to win the election, ” he said.

Warisan Plus partners comprise Parti Warisan Sabah, Upko, Sabah PKR, Sabah DAP and Amanah, who are up against Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) which comprises Sabah Barisan (Umno, MCA and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah), Perikatan Nasional (Sabah Bersatu, Sabah STAR, Sabah Progressive Party and PAS and partner Parti Bersatu Sabah).

Warisan and its partner UPKO have a total of 10 Members of Parliament.

They are friendly to Pakatan Harapan, which is the Opposition at the federal level.

Upko president Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau meanwhile expressed disbelief at Anwar’s announcement.

“If he does, why didn’t he parade the MPs he courted at the press conference like how they do at pageants?” he said.

Sabah MCA said there was no need to be excited over Anwar’s announcement.

“Anwar’s claim cannot be verified yet, ” said Sabah MCA chief Lu Yen Tung.

PBS vice-president Datuk Johnny Mositun described Anwar’s claims as a political gimmick.

“He says he has the numbers but cannot meet with the King because the King is sick.

“So why did he hold a press conference and make that statement?” he asked.

Sabah STAR’s strategic director Edward Linggu described Anwar’s announcement as mere propaganda to weaken the people’s confidence in Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s leadership.