PKR Sri Aman, Srikandi chiefs quit party
KUCHING: Parti Keadilan Rakyat ( PKR) Sri Aman chief Yen Jebeni and state Srikandi chief Sylvia Pawa Anggat have joined many other leaders in resigning from the party.
Yen, who tendered her resignation yesterday, said deputy Jubri Atak would take over in accordance with the party’s constitution.
Other Sri Aman committee members who resigned were women’s chief Patricia Limau Pantau, youth chief Lawrence Temba, and other committee members.
“We have decided to relinquish our positions in PKR because we are deeply disappointed by the party leadership, who failed to resolve the party’s internal turmoil for so long that it has led to discontent and disunity,” Yen said in a press statement.
“I also learned that a large number of supporters of Norina Umoi Utot, a PKR candidate in the last general election and deputy of the Sri Aman branch, are to follow her step and exit the party.”
She said other PKR Sri Aman sub- branch members have also expressed their unhappiness and frustration after learning that the state leadership council is no longer headed by Baru Bian.
“To my former comrades who remain with PKR, I wish them well in their struggle,” she added.
Meanwhile, Sylvia said her decision to leave was made after much thought and careful consideration as she had been with the party for almost 10 years.
“I trusted and doted on the party with all my heart.
“The journey to be where PKR is today was not a smooth sailing one. I remember clearly the jeers, condemnation, insults, and the pity sighs given by people when PKR Sarawak was launched in 2006.
“Some even made bets, saying that PKR Sarawak would not last for even a year and by the end of 2007, the party will definitely be forgotten by the locals of Sarawak.
“We had faith that one day we will overcome these hurdles and hardships together, which we did but because of selfish desires and pursuits from top leaders of the party, we are back to square one all over again,” she said in a statement.
Sylvia stressed the changes recently within the central leadership forced her decision.
“Without sincere, reputable, fearless, and credible Sarawakian leaders like Selangau MP Baru Bian, Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, and Saratok MP Ali Biju in the party, who were like anchors, foundation, and backbone of PKR Sarawak, it will be almost impossible to move forward as a strong team.
“Unity is after all one of the greatest strengths,” she said.