Dr Jikat Binol Darimbang
Social Activist
Actions of key figures and voters’ choices will shape the state’s political landscape for years to come.
KOTA KINABALU: As the upcoming Sabah state election ( PRN17), draws closer, political parties are gearing up for battle.
However, there is uncertainty because the party leaders have not yet finalised their candidates.
The emergence of new parties in every election is common in Sabah, adding to the complexity of the political landscape.
The increasing division in local parties, especially among certain ethnic groups in Sabah, raises questions about the true motives behind the emergence of these new parties.
Based on this development, the main question is: will voters base their decision on the name of the party or the qualifications of the candidate?
Sabah has a long history of political instability and division, with frequent changes in leadership and party alliances.
The state’s unique demographic makeup, consisting of various indigenous groups and immigrant communities, often leads to tensions and divisions within political parties.
Over the years, new parties have emerged to challenge the dominance of established players, leading to a highly competitive political environment.
In the current political landscape of Sabah, several important figures have a significant influence on party politics.
The incumbent Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Haji Haji Noor, led the ruling coalition Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), opposed by several parties, including UMNO and Bersatu, KDM, Warisan, PIS, etc.
On the opposition side of the local party, Warisan President Datuk Seri Panglima Shafie Apdal is a prominent figure, known for his strong leadership and grassroots support.
The upcoming state election is important for both the ruling coalition and the opposition, as the outcome will determine the future direction of the Sabah government.
The uncertainty surrounding the candidate selection process has created a sense of unpredictability, with voters unsure who will represent their interests in the state legislature.
The emergence of new parties further complicates the political landscape, making it challenging for voters to make informed decisions.
Perspectives on Party Loyalty vs. Candidate Qualification:
In the context of PRN17, the question of whether voters will prioritise the party over the candidate’s qualifications is something critical.
Some argue that party affiliation is an important factor in determining a candidate’s suitability, as it reflects their values and policies.
On the other hand, others believe that a candidate’s personal qualities, such as integrity and experience, should take precedence over party loyalty.
Ahead of PRN17, several influential individuals have played an important role in shaping the political discourse in Sabah.
Former Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman, who was recently appointed as TYT, remains an important figure in the state’s political landscape.
His influence, coupled with his wide network of supporters, could sway elections in the opposition’s favour.
Looking ahead, the impact of PRN17 is likely to have a big impact on the future of Sabah politics.
The election results will determine the state’s governance and future development trajectory.
As new parties continue to emerge, the political landscape in Sabah is likely to become more fragmented, creating challenges for governance and stability.
In conclusion, the upcoming Sabah state election, PRN17, will be an important moment in the state’s political history.
With party leaders still uncertain about their candidates and the emergence of new parties, voters faced a challenging decision.
Whether they will prioritise the name of a particular party or the qualifications of the candidate remains to be seen.
As Sabah navigates these uncertain times, the actions of key figures and the choices made by voters will shape the state’s political landscape for years to come.
