Stop using fear tactics and divisive politics, UPKO tells Warisan leaders
KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan Sabah leaders are told to stop using fear tactics and divisive politics as well as irresponsibly using religion in order to garner support from the people.
United Pasok Momogum Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (UPKO) Secretary General Datuk Donald Peter Monjuntin said Warisan President Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal is scare mongering in an attempt to fan religious sentiments among the Christian community in Sabah.
He likened Shafie’s announcement on allowing Christians to use the word ‘Allah’ if Warisan came to power to a salesman selling second-hand goods.
“The ruling government of the day has always upheld religious freedom, allowing us to worship in the manner we see fit in our churches all this while. It is not an issue,” Donald said.
He pointed out that Upko has been steadfast in its stand over the use of the term ‘Allah’, adding that the party had always defended the right of the community to use the term.
“PBS and PBRS have also been consistent on this issue. Actually all Sabah State BN leaders, including those from Umno, have spoken publicly that the use of the term ‘Allah’ by the Christian community is a non-issue in Sabah,” he said.
Donald added, “Shafie and other Warisan leaders are using underhanded political propaganda to belittle UPKO’s efforts and hoodwink the people into thinking that the party could not be bothered about something that was close to our hearts.
“UPKO past president, Tan Sri Bernard Dompok and present president, Datuk Seri Panglima Madius Tangau have always on record advocated for religious freedom in their respective time in the Federal cabinet and in the media,” he stressed.
Donald questioned Shafie’s motive in raising the issue only now, unlike before when the country never heard a squeak from him when he was part of the ruling government.
According to Donald, the Sabah State Government under Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Haji Aman has consistently allocated millions annually to Chinese vernacular and mission schools as well as non-Muslim religious organizations, including churches and temples.
“What has Shafie Apdal done to help the Christian communities in Sabah despite having access to billions when he previously helmed one of the most powerful portfolios in the Federal cabinet?” he said.
He added that the people should be wary of Shafie’s and Warisan’s brand of politics because it was divisive and dangerous.
“Religion is a sensitive matter and should not be used for ulterior political purposes. Now he wants to be a hero to the Christians in the State just to fish for votes. He is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Beware and don’t be fooled, especially those in the rural areas,” Donald said.