KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan has denied organising a purported solidarity rally for its president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, warning the public not to be misled by a poster circulating on social media.
The poster claims that a “Solidarity Gathering for Shafie Apdal” will be held at Padang Merdeka here at 2pm on Saturday (Aug 1).
Warisan secretary-general Datuk Loretto Padua Jr said on Thursday (July 30) that the party had never planned such a gathering.
He said the poster was created by irresponsible parties to tarnish the reputation of Warisan and its leaders.
Party members and the public were urged not to attend the purported event.
The denial came a day after the Kota Kinabalu Sessions Court sentenced Shafie to five weeks’ jail for contempt of court over remarks concerning the inquest into the death of teenager Zara Qairina Mahathir.
The court granted a stay of execution pending his appeal to the High Court.
Following the decision, Shafie said he respected the ruling and had instructed his lawyers to appeal.
“My duty to the people, however, remains unchanged,” he said, adding that he would continue carrying out his responsibilities with humility, integrity and respect for the rule of law.
On Thursday morning, Shafie made a public appearance at the Kota Kinabalu Central Market, a day after the ruling, dispelling any misunderstanding that he had already begun serving his jail sentence.
He spoke to traders, workers and shoppers about prices, the economy and facilities at the market that still required attention.
In a Facebook post, he said there was nothing more important than hearing directly from the people.
“Sabahans are hardworking and resilient. Our responsibility is to ensure they are supported through sound policies, proper facilities and wider economic opportunities,” he said.
