PBS leaders support Joachim as acting party president, says Youth chief

The supreme council members of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) have accepted the decision of ailing Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili to take a leave of absence and hand over the leadership to his deputy, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. PBS Youth chief Christopher Mandut stated that there was a consensus among party members at all levels regarding Ongkili’s decision and the appointment of Dr Joachim as the acting president, with party information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai taking on the role of acting deputy president.

The decision by Ongkili to step back as president has received support from leaders both at the central and divisional levels. Mandut mentioned that while there is sadness over Ongkili’s decision, there is also praise for his leadership and the belief that he made the decision in the best interest of PBS. He expressed confidence in Dr Joachim and Bangkuai, stating that with Ongkili’s guidance and their political acumen, PBS will continue to progress.

PBS vice-president Datuk Daniel Kinsik highlighted the opportunity for Dr Joachim, who previously held the position of deputy president for the non-Muslim Bumiputera quota, to showcase his leadership abilities during Ongkili’s absence. Kinsik mentioned the formation of a task force to manage party affairs in Ongkili’s absence, with Dr Joachim leading the team. He believes this will be a valuable training ground for Dr Joachim.

The task force also includes other key party members such as Datuk Seri Dr Yee Moh Chai, Datuk Jahid Jahim, Datuk Julita Majungki, and Datuk Lu Kim Yen. PBS Wanita Chief Datin Malianah Ugau expressed support for Ongkili’s decision, emphasizing that it prioritizes the party and its members’ interests in moving forward.

“The women’s movement fully supports Ongkili’s decision,” she added.