RANAU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick (pic), who is also Upko president, has called on Ranau Upko leaders and members to support all government elected representatives in the district to strengthen unity and cooperation among Sabah's local political parties.
He said a culture of mutual respect and cooperation, particularly among local government parties, was important to ensure that development for the benefit of the people could be implemented smoothly.
Speaking at the Ranau Upko Triennial General Meeting at Lohan Rest House on Saturday, Ewon said any aspirations or demands pursued by the party required consensus and cooperation from all parties, including government representatives in the district.
He also urged the new Ranau Upko leadership to submit proposals on the redelineation of electoral boundaries, saying Ranau's vast size warranted consideration for the creation of new State Legislative Assembly or parliamentary constituencies to improve representation.
Ewon also thanked Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who is also GRS chairman, and the coalition's Supreme Council leadership for officially accepting Upko as a component party, describing the move as a historic milestone that would strengthen cooperation among Sabah-based parties and advance the state's rights under the Malaysia Agreement.
