Jafry speaks to reporters.
KOTA KINABALU (Dec 18): Umno is confident of defending the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and Lamag state seat in the coming by-elections, said Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
The Umno Sabah chief said the party remained optimistic, citing Kinabatangan’s long-standing status as a Barisan Nasional (BN) stronghold and growing support in Lamag following continued grassroots engagement.
He said Umno Sabah and BN had accepted the outcome of the 17th Sabah state election with humility and a strong sense of responsibility, and would continue to play a constructive role within the state unity government.
“We will continue collaborating with unity government partners to ensure Sabah’s development agenda remains uninterrupted,” he said at an Umno Sabah liason meeting here on Wednesday.
According to Jafry, the party’s priority is not only political stability but also ensuring development in Sabah was carried out fairly and inclusively, while the welfare of the people remained a central focus.
Jafry also paid tribute to the late Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, describing the former Umno Sabah chief as a principled leader who never wavered in defending the party during challenging times.
“His passing is a great loss to Umno Sabah and to the people of this state.
“We pray that Allah grants mercy on his soul and gives strength to his family during this difficult time,” he said.
On the party’s direction under new leadership, Jafry said Umno Sabah would continue the mandate and struggle built over the years while strengthening a more inclusive and future focused approach centred on the interests of Sabahans.
He also noted the party is open to introducing new faces to strengthen leadership in the state.
Touching on preparations for the by-elections, Jafry said about four potential candidates had been identified for Lamag following consultations with divisional and grassroots leaders.
“We have around four names at this stage and discussions are ongoing to ensure the right choice is made,” he said.
He added that the party was not inclined to field the same individual for both seats, stressing that Umno Sabah preferred separate candidates to ensure effective representation.
“We do not want one person holding two positions,” he said.
Jafry said Umno Sabah would continue engaging with voters on the ground and refining its strategy ahead of the by-elections, expressing confidence that the party’s message of stability and development would resonate with the electorate.
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