Sabah opposition lauds state gov't for allowing debate in assembly sitting

Picture By : NSTP Sabah

By : Olivia Miwil (NST Sabah)

KOTA KINABALU: State opposition leader Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin has praised the Sabah government for providing a platform for the opposition to freely debate and discuss issues during the 14th assembly sitting here.

The Klias assemblyman said he is satisfied with the debate sessions, and hopes that the state government will continue to provide opportunities for assemblymen from opposition parties to voice their opinions.

"The government has been (sincere in providing) more freedom (and opportunities) for the opposition to voice out their concerns during debates.

"Chief Minister (Datuk Seri Musa Aman) was right that both the government and the opposition are the same. (We both want) to speak for the people, and help reduce poverty in our own constituencies," he said during a press conference at the state assembly hall here.

Lajim also thanked assemblymen for supporting his remaining as the opposition's leader, in spite of a move on Monday to eject him from the post.

He added that with 33 years of experience in politics, both in the government and the opposition, he will continue to guide other opposition members not to deviate from their duty to debate government policy.

"My action in admonishing Likas assemblyman Junz Wong was not to stop him from speaking, but to avoid action being taken against him, and possibly the party.

"We should avoid using un-Parliamentary words or make accusations during the debate," he said.

Meanwhile, Lajim, who is also Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah president, said he would welcome Sabah DAP deputy chairman Dr Edwin Bosi to join his party.

"It is important for him to choose a party that will help him fight for his constituents in Kapayan, who are majority KadazanDusun Murut people," Lajim added.

KONGSIKAN SEKARANG