Seat distribution among coalition parties needs a fresh approach, says Upko

KOTA KINABALU: Upko has emphasized the need for a new approach to distributing seat allocations among coalition parties in the upcoming Sabah elections to ensure fairness. The party’s president Datuk Ewon Benedick stated that this is essential to prevent parties from staking claims on seats they previously contested or held. He emphasized the importance of discussions with a newer and fresher approach to seat allocation matters.

Ewon Benedick also highlighted Upko’s readiness to engage in discussions and find common ground on all seat allocation matters. He stressed the need for new parties and coalitions to refrain from claiming seats previously held by politicians who switched parties. He emphasized that simply holding a seat previously does not automatically entitle a politician to stand in that seat after switching parties.

These statements were made by Benedick after officiating the Sipitang and Labuan Zone Upko convention in Sipitang on February 3. He pointed out that significant changes have occurred in party cooperations and politicians since the 2020 state elections, leading to a different political scenario. This, he explained, necessitates a new approach to seat allocations and arrangement.

Benedick also expressed disagreement with the notion that a politician should stand in a particular seat simply because they won in the last round, despite having switched parties. He stressed the need for a fairer distribution of seats and for a shift away from traditional claims on specific seats. This sentiment reflects Upko’s commitment to promoting fairness and equity in the upcoming elections.

Overall, Upko’s stance highlights the party’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and transparent approach to seat allocations in the Sabah elections. Ewon Benedick’s statements underscore the party’s commitment to ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to contest seats without being hindered by past claims and political affiliations.