KOTA KINABALU: Two Sabah STAR assemblymen have been advised to clarify their participation in a recent Kaamatan event in Keningau where Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal was present.
This is to maintain the unity and stability of the state administration, says chief political secretary to the Chief Minister Datuk Azrul Ibrahim.
ALSO READ: Shafie–Kitingan appearance at Kaamatan event sparks talk of political pact
He said Shafie's presence alongside the two Sabah STAR representatives, who are part of the ruling state government, has sparked questions from the grassroots.
"Both representatives should also publicly express their stance to prevent any misinterpretation of their commitment and political loyalty to the state government," he said here on Monday (May 18).
Sabah STAR was part of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition led by Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor but left prior to last year's state elections.
However, it has since stated its support for the current GRS-led state government while remaining independent.
ALSO READ: Shafie attended Kaamatan festival purely for celebrations, says Kitingan
Earlier, Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan had said that Shafie’s presence was merely for celebration purposes, because Kaamatan is a festival for all.
Shafie had earlier thanked Kitingan for his invitation on Facebook.
Shafie's presence at the festival officiated by Kitingan had fuelled speculation of a possible political pact between both parties.
The two leaders were seen chatting in the VIP row during the event, and Shafie also shared the stage with Kitingan for the highlight, cutting padi stalks, on Sunday (May 17).
