KOTA KINABALU: Following the surprise inclusion of Barisan Nasional in the Sabah state government, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (pic) has urged Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) supporters to back the current state government to ensure political stability.
Joniston, who is the Kiulu assemblyman, also called on supporters to back the state government led by Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, aiming to address uneasiness among GRS grassroots members.
"To all GRS/PBS supporters, as well as Kiulu constituents, I am requesting for us to give space to the state government consisting of local parties and independent candidates to stabilise the political situation in Sabah so we can continue the state’s development agenda and work for the benefit of the people, as swiftly as possible.
"We place full confidence and trust in the wisdom of the Chief Minister and the GRS leadership to ensure that GRS and local parties remain dominant in the state administration.
"This dominance is crucial for continuing the struggle for Sabah’s rights," said Bangkuai in a statement on Facebook on Dec 2.
In an earlier Facebook post, Bangkuai also hinted at the importance of having principles.
"We will be judged based on our principles and stern stance that is based on the people’s interest and state stability," he said.
On Monday (Dec 1), uneasiness among GRS assemblymen emerged hours after Barisan was included in the state government.
GRS Wanita and Gagasan Rakyat youth wing openly expressed objection to Barisan’s inclusion, while some leaders posted their dissatisfaction on social media.
Pantai Dalit assemblyman Datuk Jasnih Daya said on social media: "Out of honour for my family and supporters, no Barisan".
At present, the state government consists of 29 assemblymen from GRS, six from Barisan, one from Pakatan, and five independent assemblymen believed to be backing the state government.
The sole assemblyman from Parti KDM and two from Sabah STAR have not been seen supporting the GRS/Pakatan Sabah government.
