Dropped candidates in Sabah state election show varied responses, from calm acceptance to independent runs, with 74 independents contesting
KOTA KINABALU: The unveiling of candidates for Sabah’s 17th state election has triggered mixed reactions from politicians not selected to run.
Some leaders demonstrated loyalty to their parties while others publicly expressed disappointment at being dropped.
Abu Bakar Gapar accepted Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s decision not to nominate him for Lamag seat with notable composure.
“Politics is about struggle,” he said in a Facebook video. “Don’t be anxious, don’t be uneasy.”
GRS is fielding Johainizamshah Johari in the six-cornered fight for Lamag, previously held by Sabah Barisan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
Former GRS Youth chief Datuk Fairuz Renddan decided to contest as an independent candidate in Pintasan.
He said his decision was driven by personal integrity and commitment to Sabah’s youth spirit.
Former Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku Sabah Wiramuda chief Jordan Jude Ellron claimed he was “pranked” by party president Datuk Seri Jeffrey G. Kitingan.
Jordan alleged Jeffrey had confirmed his candidacy for Tulid seat before dropping him from the party’s list.
“I chose to resign as a form of sacrifice,” said Jordan, who is contesting as an independent against 13 others.
Putatan UMNO Youth chief Mohd Reduan Aklee posted an acceptance video after not being fielded for Tanjung Aru.
PH is fielding Datuk Chan Foong Him of DAP in the nine-way battle for Tanjung Aru.
Sabah UMNO deputy chief Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan declined BN’s nomination for Tempasuk to give way to new faces.
A total of 74 independent candidates are contesting, making them the entity with most candidates in the state polls.
The Election Commission has set polling day for November 29 with early voting on November 25.
Sabah has 1,784,843 registered electors comprising regular voters, military and police personnel. – Bernama
