Upko's position in govt not affected – Shafie

KOTA KINABALU: The resignation of some United Pasokmomogum Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) leaders will not affect the party's position in the state government.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal said that when asked about the resignation of Upko's Youth Chief Arthur Sen, and also the claim by the party's Treasurer General Datuk Dr Marcus Mojigoh that some grassroots leaders and members are also considering quitting.

“I've been in touch with the acting president (Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau) and he said the issue with the youth chief has been there before ... and there is an internal issue.

“When I heard the news, I was in contact with the him (Tangau), and he said it doesn't have any serious impact on the party itself,” said Shafie after visiting fire victims at thr Likas multi-purpose hall yesterday.

The Parti Warisan Sabah president also said that he had already told Tangau, he was there to provide support.

“I told him that if there's anything I can do to help him because we are part and parcel. Upko and PH are part of the Warisan-led government, so we will help where we can,” Shafie said.

On Monday, Sen resigned from Upko and all his posts within the party with immediate effect.

When contacted, he kept the reason for his resignation close to his chest.

On Tuesday, Mojigon revealed that nine UPKP branches in Putatan division were also considering quitting.