Alfred Jabu to retire from politics?

KUALA LUMPUR: A familiar face in Sarawak politics for four decades might finally retire.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) deputy president Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, 75, who entered politics 43 years ago, gave hugs and took photos with other PBB leaders at a recent party meeting, fuelling speculation that he is "finally calling it a day".
PBB sources said Jabu was saying his goodbyes by "giving hugs and taking photos."
Jabu had failed to persuade Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem to retain him for a 10th term, the sources said, adding Jabu had a very good run since entering politics as a greenhorn with a diploma in agriculture in 1973.
Adenan is expected to call for election in April.
Jabu is a nine-term assemblyman for the Dayak seat of Layar. He first won the Engkilili seat in a by-election in 1973 before moving to Layar.
"Jabu is arguably the face of Dayak politics for nearly four decades," political analysts said. "Voters will miss a familiar face."
The sources said others on the way out for various reasons, including health, are Assistant Tourism Minister Datuk Gramong Juna, Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister's Office Datuk Daud Abdul Rahman and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Abu Seman Jahwie.
Meanwhile, Sarawak showbiz personality Vernon Kedit, who is the state PKR information chief, is making his debut. He is eyeing Jabu's Layar seat.
"I will do my best," he said, adding that the job is made easier with Jabu retiring.
Others are three female newcomers who will also contest on PKR tickets – PKR national women's exco member Nurhanim Mokshen, national women's vice-president Voon Shiak Ni and Lynette Tan, an aide to PKR state chief Baru Bian.
Abdul Aziz Isa, a political aide to DAP state chairman Chong Chieng Jen, is also making his debut.