Kota Kinabalu: Several prominent figures have joined the political fray. Renowned Sabahan singer and actor Abu Bakar Ellah was among the most notable figures, contesting the Kuamut seat on the Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) ticket.
Abu Bakar, better known as Ampal, is facing an eight-cornered fight against Mohina Sidom @ Mohina Ronnie Sidom (Upko), Ted Kelvin Sudin (PIS), Datuk Masiung Banah (GRS–Gagasan Rakyat), John Sungkiang (PPRS), Norfaizah Chua @ Giak Kiang (Warisan), Duin Daud Tarang (Independent) and Jevronnie Mandek (STAR).
Also joining the contest is veteran Kadazandusun singer John Samud, who will represent KDM in the battle for the Tempasuk seat.
He is facing a seven-cornered battle involving Mohd Arsad Bistari (GRS), Rimin Maun (PKS), Azuwan Marjan @ Norjan (BN), Timuti Majitol (PIS), Mohd Khidir Lamsil (Warisan) and Walter Mark Mukis (STAR).
Not to be outdone, former Sabah football player and team manager, Henry Soimpon, has emerged as the KDM candidate for the Kiulu state seat.
The contenders in this constituency include Datuk Joniston Lumai @ Bangkuai (GRS–PBS), Dusi Gingging (PKS), Trevor Kenneth Maringking (Anak Negeri), Saibin Gunsari (Warisan), Joisin Romut (UPKO), Niyky @ Niky J. Bosikol (PIS) and Terence Sinti (STAR).
Former Sabah football star Jekerison Kilan is contesting the Nabawan seat, also representing KDM.
He is facing a nine-way battle against Junilin @ Jubilin Kilan (UPKO), Laiji Ompongoh (BN), Alfian A Koroh (Warisan), Datuk Abdul Ghani Mohamed Yassin (GRS), Farney Akon (PKS), Rejoh Ondoh (PIS), Akuang Suan (STAR) and Sayau Tangkap (PN).
Also joining the fray in this state election is former RTM Kota Kinabalu news presenter, Francis Fahir, who is contesting the Pantai Dalit seat for Star.
The Head of the Star Pantai Dalit Division is facing a seven-cornered race against Mohd Zulkernain Osman (PN), Datuk Aliasgar @ Ali Ashgar Basri (Warisan), Datuk Jasnih Daya (GRS), Jaesman @ Jaess Gipin (KDM), Liam Tawil (PIS) and Alfian Sambas (BN)
