Opposition dilemma good for BN

KUALA LUMPUR: Pakatan Harapan may be in troubled waters after three of its Sabah assemblymen, and many members, quit yesterday.

The three big names are Sabah PKR chief Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin (Klias assemblyman), Sabah PKR Information chief Terrence Siambun (Moyog assemblyman) and Sabah DAP secretary Junz Wong (Likas assemblyman).

The trio made the announcement at a joint ceremony in Kota Kinabalu yesterday, in front of some 500 supporters.

Lajim, who has helmed Sabah PKR for three years, said he plans to set up a new multiracial state-based party, and has submitted an application to the Registrar of Societies on Sept 19.

Terrence said he would be joining Semporna MP and former Umno vicepresident Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal in his new party.

Their departures came less than two weeks after PKR vice-president and Penampang lawmaker Darell Leiking resigned from the party on Sept 21, also to join Shafie’s party.

Others who announced their resignations yesterday included Sabah PKR secretary Datuk Maijol Mahap, state PKR Wanita chief Johair Matlani, Sabah DAP deputy chairman Joan Goh, Sabah DAP vice-chairman George Hiew and its state treasurer David William.

Kota Belud lawmaker Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan, in a series of tweets later, said the exodus of Pakatan’s leaders in Sabah would strengthen Barisan Nasional’s hold in the state.

“BN Sabah will be even stronger with this exodus. We have achieved many successes and will continue to work hard for the benefit of Sabahans.”

Later in a statement, PKR vicepresident Tian Chua said the party remains stable and strong. He said the party would take steps to strengthen its leadership and ensure the reform agenda continues to be the core of its struggle.