Sabah DAP’s review of ties with GRS puts PKR in tough spot

SABAH DAP’s decision to review its role in the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led state government has left its Pakatan Harapan (PH) allies, particularly PKR, in a difficult position.

PKR Deputy President Rafizi Ramli declined to comment on the matter during a town hall session on the 13th Malaysia Plan in Kota Kinabalu, while Sabah PKR leader Datuk Peto Galim distanced the party from the controversy.

“It’s not our responsibility on behalf of them,” he said but reiterated PKR’s “zero tolerance on corruption” during a press conference earlier today.

Doubts over Sabah PH's next political moves surfaced when DAP’s Central Executive Committee granted its Sabah chapter full authority on December 10 to reassess its role in the state government.

The decision was made after allegations of corruption against several GRS leaders involving mining licenses surfaced in November. 

Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe has said the party will consult its PH allies before deciding.

However, such discussions have yet to take place, including one which was supposed to take place on December 16.

Sources revealed that Sabah PKR had been unable to attend two previous meetings on the matter, further delaying progress.

The lack of clarity within PH has raised questions about its unity, especially with state elections looming next year.

Adding to the uncertainty is internal pressure within GRS, where the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) is urging its leaders to finalize an electoral pact with Sabah PH.

GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has reportedly expressed his willingness to collaborate with PH in the upcoming state election, a proposal he communicated to PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

When asked about the development, Phoong said, “As far as DAP is concerned, we need more time to go through necessary discussions before we make any decision. My statement and the party secretary-general Anthony Loke’s still stand as of today.” – December 20, 2024