KUCHING: A political commentator has expressed his surprise over the decision by several politicians, most notably Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin, in quitting Bersatu or Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia.
Datuk Peter Minos opined that although controversial, there could be some reasons behind the move.
“There had been rumours last year that she (Zuraida) will leave Bersatu, and it seems that she doesn’t love her ministerial position,” he said.
Several media outlets reported that Zuraida had submitted her resignation as Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister on May 26.
When asked about (Deputy Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities) Datuk Willie Mongin and (Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources) Datuk Ali Biju — both Bersatu members — Minos said they were firm and would stand beside PBB (Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu).
“We feel that is our seat so it’s up to Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and PBB to appoint the candidate.
“Bersatu can challenge the seat and it’s their right but we don’t welcome them.”
He revealed that he did not want any political party from the Peninsular to contest for the seat.
When asked about Willie jumping from Bersatu, he said there was a possibility.
“We would have wanted him to leave Bersatu sometime back, but definitely this year.
“Plus on the last day of the election, he helped PBB and GPS win. He even wore the medal from GPS. But after the local PBB was offended and didn’t want him,” Minos said during the Sarawak Metro Berambeh Raya Gawai event here on Thursday (May 26).
“But at the time, he gave a hint that he wanted to be with PBB.
“But if he really wanted to, please resign now. If he’s waiting for the election, people will say he is opportunistic. So it’s better for him to resign now.”
