KUCHING: PRS deputy president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum has squashed reports that he would take over as president following the passing of Tan Sri James Jemut Masing.
“We are all still mourning the loss of Tan Sri James Masing, and this press conference today is to clarify that there’s no truth to the reports.
“I am not crazy for power. As deputy president, I supported the party’s leadership and I am only assuming the responsibilities and I am not occupying the post,” he stressed.
“As deputy president, my duty is to hold the party together. I have no intention of grabbing the president post.
“We are all united in the party. On Sunday, the Supreme Council meeting was planned more than two weeks earlier and sadly, it coincided with Tan Sri James Masing’s passing,” he explained.
“The meeting was already planned. And according to our Iban custom, during the wake can do normal business. After the funeral, cannot do anythng.
“The election bell has also rung and we cannot wait. The Supreme council meeting cannot be delayed.
“It was supposed to be on Oct 29 and because of Budget announcement, we moved our meeting to Sunday (Oct 31). So very sadly our president left us on the same day.
“There is no intention to disrespect him and his family members. We all want to continue with his legacy and to seek ways collectively whereby, first, to assist his family during their difficult time and to prepare for the elections.”
Salang added: “Nothing to do with personal reasons or individual reasons. And there are no disagreement in the party on how to move forward and to show respect for our late president.
“Don’t take (news reports on party) from vibes. Take it from me personally or from Datuk Wilfred Nissom, our publicity chief.”
Meanwhile on Masing’s successor, Salang said it was still too early for that.
