Independent Kuala Penyu state assemblyperson Limus Jury today denied that his decision to leave United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) was motivated by business interests.
This came after Warisan information chief Yusof Yacob alleged that both Limus (photo, above) and Sugut state assemblyperson James Ratib left Upko due to multi-million contracts awarded by the federal government.
In particular, Yusof linked Limus to Perwira Progresif Sdn Bhd which was awarded a RM385 million Pan Borneo Highway construction contract.
"I do not deny my link with Perwira Progresif, the company that I founded and worked in before I was elected as the people's representative," said Limus in a statement today.
Limus said Perwira Progresif is by bumiputera-Kadazan company Dusun Tatana Kuala Penyu which has a track record in its ability to carry out projects successfully.
"Based on these facts, Perwira Progresif, together with other tens of companies, had participated in the tender of the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah and was awarded one of the packages to upgrade the road from Inanam to Sepanggar," he said.
Limus pointed out that this is not an "Ali Baba" company which will subcontract out the job to another contractor.
"Ali Baba" is the term used to describe bumiputera companies that pass their contracts to other contractors upon receiving these projects.
"As such, Yusof's accusation (I left Upko) due to a project worth hundreds of millions is baseless and prejudiced," he said.
Limus also raised the question about Warisan and Pakatan Harapan leaders who also lobbied for projects as some had met him to discuss such matters.
Only taking care of allies
The Kuala Penyu rep said he and James lost their confidence in Upko's leadership as the Kadazan Dusun Murut-based party is no longer consistent in its struggle and course.
He said it was better for them to leave Upko for the sake of their constituencies' development.
Limus also pointed out Upko president Wilfred Madius Tangau only took care of his and his allies' interests while the others were neglected.
"It is known that as a senior leader of Upko and lawmaker, I never held any position via political appointment in the government or government-linked companies," he said.
The exit of both lawmakers from Upko, which is allied to Warisan, drew attention as there is speculation that the Sabah state government would be the next to fall.
As of today, the state's ruling coalition commands the support of 41 state assemblypersons out of 60.
Soon after the exit of Limus and James, Yusof alleged both lawmakers had vested interest in their move to shift loyalty to Perikata Nasional.
Yesterday, James clarified that he left Upko to safeguard the interests of Sabahans, who still needed the support of the federal government for further development. - Mkini
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