Warisan Gains Ground in Sabah Elections as Key Leaders Hold Seats
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A significant upset in the Sabah state elections saw Warisan’s Tham Yun Fook defeat incumbent Phoong Zhin Je of the DAP in the Likas constituency, a seat previously held by the DAP. Despite this loss, leaders from the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Warisan, Barisan Nasional (BN), Parti STAR Sabah, and United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) successfully defended their positions, signaling a complex outcome in the closely watched polls.
The election unfolded against a backdrop of critical issues facing Sabah, with the state’s long-standing demand for 40% of federal revenue generated within its borders taking center stage. This issue resonated deeply with voters, highlighting the ongoing debate over resource allocation and regional autonomy.
Key Leaders Secure Re-election
The stability of the political landscape was underscored by the retention of key leadership roles. Hajiji of GRS held his seat in Sulaman, while Shafie Apdal of Warisan secured victory in Senallang. Bung Moktar Radin of BN maintained his position in Lamag, and Jeffrey Kitingan of STAR was re-elected in Tambunan. Additionally, Ewon Benedick of UPKO successfully defended his seat in Kadamaian. These results suggest a continued level of support for established political figures within their respective constituencies.
Corruption Allegations and Infrastructure Concerns Dominate Campaign
The campaign period was not without controversy. An alleged mining corruption scandal involving the incumbent GRS-PH alliance gained prominence in the final days, potentially influencing voter sentiment. Beyond the scandal, voters expressed deep concern over persistent municipal woes, including inadequate water and electricity supply, and deteriorating road infrastructure. These longstanding issues underscored the need for tangible improvements in basic services.
Record Number of Candidates in Multi-Cornered Contests
This election witnessed an unprecedented level of political participation, with a record 596 candidates – including 74 independents – competing for 73 seats. Every constituency hosted multi-cornered fights, with a minimum of four candidates vying for each position. This intense competition reflects a heightened level of political engagement and a desire for greater representation.
The Election Commission anticipates the release of official results around midnight, contingent on prevailing weather conditions. The final tally will provide a comprehensive picture of the shifting political dynamics within Sabah and the priorities of its electorate.
