Rina Not Fielded For Sabah Polls, Harapan Rakyat Party Membership Suspended

TAWAU, Nov 13 (Bernama) -- Kukusan state constituency incumbent Datuk Rina Jainal was not nominated by Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (Harapan Rakyat) to contest in the 17th Sabah State Election after her party membership was suspended for three years, effective yesterday.

Harapan Rakyat secretary-general Christy Chok said the suspension, including Rina's post as party deputy president, was made after she was found guilty of violating party discipline and failing to promote the party in any community activities and party matters in Kukusan.

"The decision was made after the Supreme Council received recommendations from the party Disciplinary Committee following an investigation that was conducted,” he said in a statement today.

Harapan Rakyat is a component of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).

Meanwhile, Rina, in a statement today, described her membership suspension ahead of the nomination on Saturday as dubious and an attempt to prevent her from contesting under the party in the state election.

"This action is extremely weird and looks like there is a certain intention to prevent me from contesting… internal issues should be dealt with amicably and in the spirit of party camaraderie.

"Action like this (suspension) is not only disappointing, but I see it as a slick move to sideline me ahead of the election,” she said.

She, however, said she respects the party's decision, but insisted that she has the right to defend herself, adding that she will explain to the people what actually happened.

"My struggle doesn't end here. I remain committed to defending the fate of the people of Kukusan despite this unexpected political challenge,” she said, adding that she will evaluate her next move after discussions with her supporters and family members.

The Election Commission has set Nov 29 as polling day for the 17th Sabah state election, with nomination day on Nov 15 and early voting on Nov 25.

In the previous state election, Rina, who was then representing Parti Warisan Sabah, won the Kukusan seat by narrowly defeating her nearest rival, Chaya Sulaiman of Barisan Nasional (BN), by just 10 votes.

For the latest news on the 17th Sabah State Election, please visit https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index-en.php

Meanwhile, Rina issued another statement to announce that she has resigned from Harapan Rakyat, effective today.

Rina said the decision was made as a matter of principle and dignity, claiming that she has been a victim of political sabotage by party insiders, who suspended her membership just three days before nomination day (on Nov 15).

"I no longer have any ties with Harapan Rakyat. Clearly, some in the party want to get rid of me, especially ahead of nomination day for the 17th Sabah State Election,” she said.

-- BERNAMA