Sabah polls: Key political figures poised as ‘poster boys’ for their parties

POLITICAL heavyweights including Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Datuk Ruji Ubi, and Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal are expected to emerge as the prominent faces of their respective parties in the 17th Sabah General Election.

Analysts say these figures could play decisive roles in shaping voter sentiment and potentially lead their parties to claim the Chief Ministership.

Professor Madya Dr Syahruddin Awang Ahmad, a political analyst at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, said the anticipation stems from the influence and status of these leaders, who are viewed as potential Chief Minister candidates.

“In my view, within Barisan Nasional, only two key names are being considered, namely Bung Moktar and Usukan assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak,” he said.

“Perikatan Nasional is likely to feature its Sabah chairman, Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee, as the ‘poster boy’, along with Karambunai assembly candidate Datuk Dr Aliakhbar Gulasan.”

Dr Syahruddin added that Gabungan Rakyat Sabah and Parti Warisan are expected to maintain their leading figures, Hajiji and Mohd Shafie, as the focal points of their campaigns.

“Each party is responding to current circumstances and grassroots sentiment. Even before the dissolution of the state assembly, these names were among the top contenders to be elevated as Chief Minister candidates should they win the election.

However, the situation is very fluid, and within 24 to 48 hours, shifts are entirely possible,” he explained.

Commenting on Pertubuhan Kinabalu Progresif Bersatu, Dr Syahruddin suggested that its president, Datuk Ewon Benedick, could serve as the party’s primary figurehead.

“I cannot make a precise prediction. UPKO does not typically win many seats, so Ewon is likely to complement whichever coalition emerges after the election,” he said.

The analyst also forecast that independent candidates, grouped under the so-called Gelombang Hitam movement, may rally around Kudat Member of Parliament Datuk Verdon Bahanda as their leading figure in the campaign. - November 16, 2025