Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has dismissed the idea that it’s time to name a ‘poster boy’ for Sabah ahead of the next state election, stating that the coalition's priority should be winning seats—not personalities.
Speaking after a festive gathering with the Felda community in Palong 3 today, Zahid stressed that discussions on who should be the face of BN’s campaign or be named chief minister are premature. “Let’s set aside the matter of selecting a menteri besar or chief minister for now,” he said. “Our focus must be on ensuring victory for every candidate we put forward.”
His comments came in response to media reports claiming that Sabah UMNO plans to nominate its state chairman, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, as the party's ‘poster boy’ for the upcoming election. While Zahid acknowledged the proposal, he emphasized that the time to make such a declaration has not yet arrived.
The UMNO president, who is also Deputy Prime Minister, explained that he had recently met with the Sabah UMNO leadership and laid out strategic directions for the party in preparation for the state polls. He noted that any decision on leadership will be made only after the election results are in and will be based on consensus among elected representatives.
“I will personally engage with the state UMNO leadership to identify who is accepted by the majority of Sabah assemblymen and who is capable of leading the state government, should our coalition secure a majority,” he added.
The event was also attended by Negeri Sembilan royalty, Tunku Zain Al-‘Abidin Tuanku Muhriz, and the state’s Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.
Zahid’s remarks appear to be aimed at maintaining unity and avoiding early friction within the party over leadership positions. While Bung Moktar remains a prominent and influential figure within Sabah UMNO, Zahid’s approach reflects a more cautious strategy, putting election victory ahead of premature endorsements.
As speculation grows over Sabah’s political future, Zahid has made it clear: the focus now is on strengthening the party’s grassroots and strategy—not on personalities.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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