Kota Kinabalu: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) Sec-Gen Datuk Nelson W Angang said his DAP counterpart Anthony Loke should first seek proper legal advice regarding the status of the Federal Government’s appeal in the case of Sabah’s 40pc net revenue entitlement before issuing statements.
He also claimed that in the final Pakatan Harapan (PH) Presidential Council meeting attended by Upko, all PH component leaders were firm in wanting to proceed with the appeal, without giving space to Upko’s opposing views.
“Seeing how our stance was sidelined and our views not respected, that was the turning point which convinced Upko that it was time to leave the coalition,” he said.
Nelson said the Federal Government is now challenging the Kota Kinabalu High Court’s ruling by deeming all reviews conducted in 2021, 2022 and 2023 as invalid.
“This is something which, according to former SLS President Datuk Roger Chin, could have wide ramifications on Sabah’s claim.
He added the people of Sabah suspect the Federal Government’s appeal has the potential to block the payment of the 40pc entitlement for the 50 years that have been lost.
“I challenge all DAP candidates to go to the ground and explain to the people of Sabah that this appeal is, in reality, about not wanting to pay Sabah’s rightful dues since 1974 by using technical excuses,” he added.
Nelson stressed that Upko’s position is not about opposing the Federal Government, but opposing actions that appear to disregard Sabah’s constitutional rights that have been delayed for more than five decades.
He said the new Sabah Government does not need to be confrontational, as they respect the cooperation with the Federal Government.
“However, the Federal Government holds the authority to respect the High Court’s decision, implement the ruling, and negotiate fairly on the payment.
“The appeal process, which may drag on to the Federal Court, will only further delay Sabah’s rightful dues that have already been decided by the court.
“Do not attempt to mislead the people of Sabah. You claim there is no appeal, but the fact is there is an appeal. Be honest and do not play with words. Do not belittle the understanding of Sabahans,” he stressed.
