Warisan-Umno alliance could upend political landscape

KOTA KINABALU: Warisan’s recent decision to ally with Umno for the upcoming Sabah State Election presents a significant departure from its previous stance, which propelled it into power on the back of a public outcry against Umno/BN in the 2020 State Election.

Former Petagas assemblyman Datuk James Ligunjang said this pivot raises concerns about a perceived betrayal of the foundational principles that earned it wide support, particularly regarding the quest for greater autonomy and adherence to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Ligunjang said the MA63, a pivotal document in the history of Malaysia’s formation, remains a cornerstone in Borneon states politics, where non-compliance allegations have fostered feelings of neglect.

“Warisan had capitalised on this sentiment, promising a reinvigorated focus on Sabah’s rights and aspirations as outlined in the agreement. Now, however, its unexpected collaboration with Umno, a former political adversary, runs the risk of alienating its base, casting doubts over its commitment to change and autonomy,” he said in a statement on Monday.

Ligunjang added the political risk will be acute in demographics such as the Chinese and Kadazan-Dusun communities, whose support was critical to Warisan’s ascent. They gravitated towards the party for its reformist and inclusive platform. If this alliance is seen as a mere tactical maneuver for electoral advantage, it may jeopardise Warisan’s credibility and support, potentially altering the party’s long-term prospects.

According to him, this bold move by Warisan highlights the intricate dilemma that many political parties face: reconciling ideological tenets with the realpolitik of electioneering.

The resolution to this issue will not only shape Warisan’s destiny but may also indicate emerging dynamics in Sabah politics, especially now when Sabahans wants to align with local based parties that champion their rights as envisaged in the MA63.

As election day approaches, Ligunjang said Warisan’s leadership is tasked with a delicate balance: forging political alliances with Malayan parties while upholding the sacred trust of their voters.

Any missteps could have significant repercussions, affecting Warisan’s performance in the polls and influencing the representation and unity of Sabah’s multicultural society.

The months ahead will put Warisan’s political dexterity and fidelity to its founding ideals to the test. The future of Sabah lies with local based parties coming together to remove the influence of Malayan political parties, he said.

Now, however, its unexpected collaboration with Umno, a former political adversary, runs the risk of alienating its base, casting doubts over its commitment to change and autonomy.

Datuk James Ligunjang