Mohd Naim Kurniawan Moktar says he is not interested in contesting the Lamag by-election, suggesting a local candidate should take over his late father’s seat.
KOTA KINABALU: Kinabatangan UMNO Youth chief Mohd Naim Kurniawan Moktar says he has no interest in contesting the Lamag state by-election.
The seat was left vacant following the death of his father, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, on Dec 5.
Mohd Naim, who had been touted as a potential candidate, said the constituency should go to someone born in the area to continue its struggle.
“I appreciate the support of those who want me to contest, but the selection of candidates is up to the party,” he posted on Facebook.
He added that as a loyal member, he fully respects whatever decision the party makes.
Mohd Naim outlined criteria for the candidate, stating they must hail from Lamag, be aged 50 or below, be educated and loyal to the party’s struggles.
Bung Moktar passed away less than a week after being re-elected as the Lamag assemblyman for a second term.
He retained the seat with a majority of 153 votes in a six-cornered fight in the Sabah state election on Nov 29.
The Election Commission will hold a special meeting on Dec 16 to determine key dates for the by-elections in Kinabatangan and Lamag.
