SANDAKAN: Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) incumbent Assemblyman for Tanjung Papat Datuk Frankie Poon and former State Secretary Liau Fui Fui have resigned from the party.
Frankie, the former Sabah DAP Chairman, and Liau said in a joint statement the decision was made after careful consideration of internal developments within the party, which they claimed revealed hidden agendas to replace the current leadership in Tanjong Papat without consultation.
“This decision was not made hastily, but after thoroughly assessing various internal developments that clearly indicated an underlying effort to remove the existing leadership without discussion,” the statement read.
They also expressed disappointment over what they described as DAP Sabah’s current direction, which focuses solely on empowering younger leaders while sidelining veterans who contributed to the party’s growth.
“We believe that leadership at both senior and grassroots levels must be balanced for the organisation to grow harmoniously and inclusively,” they said.
Both leaders stressed that their decision to leave DAP was made in the spirit of upholding integrity, mutual respect and the principles they have long stood by.
“Although this is a difficult decision, we are doing it to defend our principles and the people’s trust. We will continue to serve the people with sincerity, commitment and courage. Political platforms may change, but our dedication to the people remains unwavering,” they said.
Meanwhile, Sabah DAP Chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said the party respects the decision of Frankie and Liau to leave the party along with their respective branches.
“We sincerely thank them for their years of service and contribution to both the party and the people of Sabah and wish them well in their future endeavours,” he said in a statement.
He said now is the time to remain focused on serving the people of Sandakan and bringing positive development to the community.
“I have spoken with our Sabah Secretary cum Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee and have full confidence in her leadership to strengthen our party machinery in Sandakan while ensuring we continue delivering people-oriented services on the ground. My team and I, together with the new Sabah DAP leadership, will continue working with honesty, humility and dedication to serve the people and fight for a better Sabah.
“Together, we will unfold a new chapter that brings hope, resilience and unity for all Sabahans,” he said.