Sabah Umno has shortlisted four new male candidates for the Kinabatangan and Lamag by-elections, with selection based on grassroots feedback
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Umno has identified four individuals as potential candidates for the upcoming Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections.
Sabah Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the party is assessing criteria for a ‘winnable candidate’ based on grassroots engagement sessions.
“We have identified several candidates and I have listened to all the views expressed by leaders at the grassroots level,” he said at a press conference.
Jafry, who is also Sabah Tourism Minister, said the prospective candidates are male, new faces seen as capable of delivering a more convincing victory.
He said candidate selection considered the reduced Umno majority in Lamag during the last state election and the health of the late incumbent.
The by-elections follow the death of incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin on 5 December.
Jafry added that he had met Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who informed him of the intention to defend the Barisan Nasional seats.
The Election Commission has fixed the by-elections for 24 January 2026, with nomination day on 10 January and early voting on 20 January.
Jafry said the new Sabah Umno leadership is committed to continuing the party’s struggle in a more inclusive and mature manner.
“Our priority is not merely political stability, but to ensure that state development continues in a fair, comprehensive and effective manner,” he stated.
He added that Sabah Umno and BN are committed to being mature, disciplined and responsible partners in the state unity government.
Jafry also announced several party appointments, including Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Salleh Said Keruak remaining as Sabah Umno treasurer.
Datuk Nik Mohd Nadzri Nik Zawawi was appointed Information chief, and Datuk Harun Durabi as assistant secretary. – Bernama
