KOTA KINABALU: Even though it is seen as the underdog and is dealing with various challenges, especially regarding funding, the Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) has still managed to achieve impressive results, securing the Paginatan DUN seat and coming very close to winning in the Matunggong and Melalap DUNs.
The party’s candidates also received a notable number of votes, despite not winning in the Elopura, Tanjung Papat, and Nabawan seats.
While their performance in the recent election may seem average, political analyst Mohd Ustar Abdul Ghani believes that KDM has maintained its relevance in Sabah’s political landscape.
“Confronted with financial limitations and the absence of its founding leader Peter Anthony, who is currently serving a prison sentence, KDM has made its mark in parts of the Momogun heartland.
“The victory in Paginatan signifies the electorate’s acceptance of the party,” he stated.
Ustar mentioned that the recent election indicated a political shift, suggesting that KDM could emerge as a formidable force alongside UPKO, PBS, and STAR.
“With effective strategies and strong candidates, KDM has the potential to offer a fresh political option for the Momogun and other electorates, particularly in the upcoming general election in 2027,” he concluded.
