TUARAN: The Kiulu State Constituency (DUN) is often regarded as a stronghold for the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), especially after several attempts to unseat candidates from this long-established party have failed in previous elections.
However, PBS’s control, which is backed by the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in this constituency, appears to be weakening, particularly with the emergence of new candidates representing local parties.
Among those expected to pose a significant challenge to the incumbent PBS candidate, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who has held the seat for three consecutive terms, is Henry Saimpon from the Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) party.
Although the 17th Sabah State Election marks Henry’s debut as a candidate, his name, hailing from Kampung Bongol in Kiulu, is gaining prominence like the Rafflesia flower, which symbolises the KDM party.
Nonetheless, KDM faces a tough challenge, especially with the presence of other parties that consider themselves ‘original Sabahan’, leading to a competitive eight-way contest.
When we mention Henry Saimpon, many might immediately think of the former Sabah football player.
However, beyond his illustrious football career, Henry possesses numerous other talents and is also highly educated.
He is a graduate of Universiti Teknologi Mara, holding a Master’s degree in Political Science.
Henry’s approachable and humble leadership qualities are among his strengths that could lead to a surprising outcome in the 17th Sabah State Election.
Meanwhile, two other parties that are seen as capable of providing competition are the Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) and Upko, a party that has recently ‘broken up’ with the Pakatan Harapan (PH)
Source – Info X
