Sabah UMNO deputy chief Abdul Rahman withdraws candidacy for Tempasuk seat, making way for local leader in what BN calls healthy political move
SEREMBAN: Sabah UMNO deputy chief Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan’s decision to withdraw his candidacy for the Tempasuk state seat demonstrates healthy politics, according to Barisan Nasional leadership.
BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the move reflects a leader’s responsibility in prioritizing both party interests and local representation.
“He is not the division head there,” Mohamad told reporters after presenting SPM examination kits and laptops to students in his Rembau constituency.
Abdul Rahman, who serves as Tuaran UMNO Division chief but previously contested in Kota Belud, willingly made way for Kota Belud UMNO Division head Azuwan Marjan Norjan.
“This is a good thing and a sign of healthy politics because we make way for local leaders,” the Rembau MP added.
Mohamad expressed hope that the new candidate would secure victory in the upcoming election.
Abdul Rahman had informed BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi of his decision to allow a local face from Kota Belud to represent the party.
The Election Commission has set November 29 as polling day for Sabah’s 17th state election, with nomination day on November 15 and early voting on November 25.
Tempasuk was previously won by Datuk Mohd Arsad Bistari, who represented BN with a 1,685-vote majority in the last election.
Mohd Arsad has since been named as Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s candidate for the same seat in the upcoming contest. – Bernama
