Kota Kinabalu: A Perikatan National leader called for the resignation of a Kedah State Executive Councillor over a remark that all Sabahans voting in this month’s elections need are two loaves of Gardenia bread.
Damansara Bersatu Division Secretary Aliff Taufid said Mansor Zakaria’s remark not only tarnished the party’s image but also damaged PN’s longstanding relationship with Sabahans at a time when PN is contesting in the Sabah election on Nov.29.
“Leaders cannot simply acknowledge mistakes through media statements. They must show accountability through concrete actions that can restore public confidence, particularly in Sabah,” Aliff said.
He said resignation from the exco post would symbolise sincere apology and prove willingness to shoulder political responsibility maturely.
The move is also important to show solidarity with PN candidates in Sabah, who now face negative perceptions due to the incident.
Aliff said Mansor could retain his position as Kuala Ketil Assemblyman to honour the people’s mandate until the end of his term.
Earlier, Sabah Barisan Nasional Chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin also rebuked Mansor for making “an insulting and belittling comment about Sabah voters”.
He said such remarks showed some still believed voters in the state could be swayed with trivial items, which was a serious insult to the dignity and wisdom of Sabahans.
“It reflects a political mindset that assumes Sabahans can be persuaded with a piece of bread,” he said.
“If it is true that Sabahans like Gardenia, he should be thanking them. The product generates hundreds of millions in profit each year, and a large part of that comes from Sabah consumers. That is a fact,” he said.
He said such remarks exposed a narrow way of thinking that was unfit for leadership.
