Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the decision of two former Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) leaders, who are now candidates for the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) in the coming state election, is a democratic right that must be respected.
The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Chairman said every individual in a free political system has the right to choose the party they wish to represent and that this reflects the healthy practice of democracy in Sabah.
“Of course, it is their democratic right to choose the party they wish to represent. They have chosen to contest under the PKR banner. Coincidentally, PKR is also a coalition partner in the Government,” he said.
He was asked on the actions of Datuk Jamawi Jaafar and Datuk George Hiew, who were previously Gagasan Rakyat leaders but named as PKR candidates.
Hajiji, who is also Gagasan Rakyat President, stressed that the matter does not pose any problem for either GRS or Gagasan Rakyat, as it reflects the unique nature and political dynamics of Sabah.
“For me, there is no issue, this is the political dynamic in Sabah. Both individuals are now officially PKR candidates and no longer represent Gagasan Rakyat. We have already released them. What more can be do? It is their right and we respect it. We cannot prevent it, that is part of democracy,” he said.
Hajiji also said Gagasan Rakyat will continue to support them as candidates from the Unity Government component.
“So, let it be. We will continue to give our support because they are Pakatan Harapan candidates,” he said.
Regarding the actions of United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) President Datuk Ewon Benedick who resigned from the Federal Cabinet and was alleged to disagree with the stance of the Federal Government, Hajiji said he would not comment further.
“I cannot comment further. We have already issued a statement. Ideally, we hope the Federal Government does not appeal. However, if they wish to appeal, that is their decision,” he said.