PBS considers Matunggong seat ‘discord’ solved

PENAMPANG: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) yesterday expressed “deep regret and disappointment” over a senior leader's formula to recapture Matunggong for Barisan Nasional.

PBS deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said the announcement had caused great unhappiness amongst the grassroots.

“After an intense meeting with the PBS Supreme Council members today, we however have declared the matter solved following intervention from Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman, who is also the Sabah BN chairman.

“Explanation has been given, and we consider the problem ‘solved'. We have activated and strengthened the machinery and advised our members statewide to remain calm and stick to the job of assisting all BN candidates and making sure all seats are won,” said Maximus, who is also the Kota Marudu member of parliament.

At the meeting, PBS also endorsed the stand by its division, N4 Matunggong, objecting to the so-called formula to win back the seat for BN.

“N4 Matunggong has been our stronghold seat since we re-joined BN in 2002. It has always been assigned to PBS and any departure from what has been agreed would always cause instability for the BN,” he said.

Maximus, who has been tasked by the Supreme Council members last year to carry out the president's duties, said it was improper for Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to make such negative remarks, especially in the presence of thousands of supporters and in front of PBS president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.

“The incident has caused deep unhappiness to the extent the grassroots have urged the party to fly our own flag in the coming election.

“We call on our members to remain calm and continue to consolidate our preparation for GE14, especially in the 13 + 5 seats (13 state and five parliamentary seats) allocated to us. Let's make sure BN is returned to power and ensure victories to all PBS seats,” he said.