SANDAKAN: Issues within the Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) are escalating as another senior division leader has exited the party.
This development is perceived as a political ripple effect ahead of the significant 17th state election (PRN17).
Datuk Frankie Poon, the former chairman of Sabah DAP and ex-Tanjung Papat assemblyman, along with Liau Fui Fui, the former Organization Secretary of Sabah DAP, have officially declared their departure from the Democratic Action Party (DAP), taking with them two DAP branches they led.
“This decision was not made in haste; it was reached after a thorough assessment of various internal developments within the party recently.
“We have clearly observed actions from certain leaders that suggest a concealed agenda to replace the current leadership in Tanjong Papat without any formal consultation or discussion,” Frankie Poon stated in a press release today.
He said the current direction of DAP Sabah is solely focused on young groups to lead the party, neglecting the roles of veteran and senior leaders who have long sacrificed and contributed to the party.
“This shows a lack of appreciation for veteran and senior leaders who have sacrificed and contributed to the party for so long.
“We unanimously agree that in any organisation, there must be a balanced leadership structure, both at the top and at the grassroots level, in order for the organisation to grow harmoniously and inclusively,” he said.
According to Frankie, they emphasise that this decision was not made lightly.
“For many years, we have served the people and the party with dedication. However, if the principles of honesty, mutual respect, and working together are no longer valued, then we are taking this step with a firm heart.
“Although this decision is bitter, we are doing it to uphold the principles of the struggle and the people’s trust. We want to emphasise that our service to the people will not stop here.
“We will continue to fight for the people as usual with sincerity, commitment, and courage.” Political platforms may change, but the spirit of serving the people remains our priority,” we both emphasised.
“With this announcement, we, along with our followers and branches, will move independently from the DAP structure, while continuing our political service and struggle at the grassroots level as usual,” he added.
Meanwhile, it was unclear whether Frankie, a former state minister, would join local party Warisan following his departure from DAP.
