Ewon Benedick to take over as Upko president

 

Upko president Wilfred Madius Tangau (second from right) locking hands with his soon-to-be successor Ewon Benedick after a press conference. (Upko pic)

PETALING JAYA: Ewon Benedick is set to become the new president of Upko after its party election, taking over the post from Tuaran MP Wilfred Madius Tangau.

Tangau, a former federal minister, announced that he would not be defending the president’s post in Upko’s upcoming party election.

In May, FMT reported that Ewon, who is an Upko vice-president, was expected to throw his hat into the ring for the president’s post when the party holds its election.

Tangau said the decision to let Ewon take over the party presidency was made after assessing his leadership capabilities.

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“We are aware of the political instability in the country with the next general election looming,” he said. “In view of this, Upko must formulate a new strategy to continue to fight for the interests of the people.”

He added that the party would be having a new lineup of leaders with fresh perspectives in line with Upko’s core principles.

He expressed confidence that the new leadership under Ewon would ensure the party remained committed to fighting for the people.

Tangau was appointed as acting president of Upko in 2014 following the retirement of Bernard Dompok. He held the post until 2018 and was elected to continue as president during the party general meeting that year.

Tangau will take up the position of honorary president after his term ends. - FMT