Ewon Benedick remains as Upko president for 2026-2029 term

 Donald Peter Mojuntin retains his position as the party’s deputy president.

Ewon Benedick (left) and Donald Peter Mojuntin won uncontested to lead Upko for another term.

PETALING JAYA:

Ewon Benedick will continue to lead the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) as president for the 2026-2029 term.

Donald Peter Mojuntin will also retain his position as the party’s deputy president, Bernama reported.

The two positions were uncontested in the party election held in conjunction with the 17th Upko triennial delegates conference in Penampang today.

Also elected unopposed were five vice-presidents — Jairaiaz Joseph, Wong Thien Fook, Pangiran Lalung, Basari Sarikun and Laurentius Nayan Ambu.

In his winding-up speech at the conference, Ewon said he respected the democratic process and the decision made by delegates.

Ewon said the new leadership was responsible for conveying the party’s resolutions to the government leadership, particularly Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor, who is also Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman.

Meanwhile, several Upko wings saw changes in their leadership in the elections held.

Carlye Lajimin was elected the new Upko Youth chief, while Newbaxter Tibin was elected deputy chief.

Carlye, who was previously Upko Youth deputy chief, succeeds Felix Joseph Saang.

Mohina Sidom retained her position as Upko women’s chief after successfully defending her post, while Lomiti Jahan was elected deputy chief.

The Upko Young Generation movement also has new leadership, with Emmanuel Atin elected chief, succeeding Seheral Linus.

Alison Chan was elected deputy chief, succeeding Russell Flavian. - FMT