KOTA KINABALU: Sabah DAP vice-chairman Jannie Lasimbang is set to defend her Kapayan seat after grassroots leader Cyril Liew quit the party to contest as an independent in the upcoming state elections.
Lasimbang, 63, had in April last year indicated her readiness to step aside for younger leaders, but said the party leadership has encouraged her to stay on.
“Yes, DAP leadership has encouraged me to (defend the seat). But of course, nothing is final (until) the nomination,” she said in a text message.
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Lasimbang expressed deep disappointment over Liew’s defection, which she described as unexpected, especially given the trust and responsibilities he was given to serve the Kapayan constituency.
Liew previously announced his candidacy alongside Kudat MP Datuk Verdon Bahanda, who is leading a group of independents under the Gelombang Hitam banner.
While he held no formal party post, Lasimbang said Liew’s achievements were part of team efforts and his duties as her former community development officer.
