KOTA KINABALU: Upko president Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau and his vice-president Datuk Ewon Benedick will let party members decide whether a challenge for the party’s presidency is on this October.

Benedick, who had previously offered himself to be the next party president, said he and Tangau agreed in a recent meeting that Upko members will have the final say if a contest for the top post is what they want.

He said the party election was among the topics they discussed, in addition to current political issues. 

“The annual general meetings (AGMs) at all Upko divisions are still ongoing, with six more divisions set to hold their AGMs before we proceed to the party congress,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (July 6).

“Both of us agreed to respect the views and decisions of all the divisions.

“What’s important is that our focus remains on Upko’s vision as stated in the party constitution as well as continuing to uphold issues close to the people’s hearts, including on state rights,” Benedick added.

The Upko congress, scheduled to be held in October, is expected to see keen contests for supreme council positions and potentially, the president's post as well.

Benedick had said earlier that he was ready to shoulder the responsibilities of being the party’s top leader if that was what the members wanted. 

Speaking during the Kota Belud division triennial general meeting on May 16, the Kadamaian assemblyman said he was not challenging anyone’s leadership.

“But I intend to offer my record and service in Kadamaian to the party members.

“If they think my track record can become the new inspiration for the party and they feel the time has come, I am willing to take on that challenge,” Benedick said.

Following that, Madius issued a statement which did not explicitly address Benedick’s overtures but only said that all positions could be contested in the party polls.

It was also previously reported that Madius, who is also Tuaran MP, was said to have been offered a “president mentor” position by senior party leaders and subsequently make way for Benedick to take the reins.

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post, Madius said he had also invited Benedick to launch the Tuaran Upko Wanita and Youth wings’ triennial general meetings on July 12. 

The post garnered positive reactions particularly from party members who said it showcased political maturity and camaraderie within Upko.

Benedick described his discussions with Madius at the casual but important meeting where they spoke on critical issues ahead of the Sabah state assembly and Parliament sittings.

“We spoke on issues we will be bringing to our respective sittings particularly on the challenges and difficulties faced by the people due to the sudden rise in the cost of living, as well as matters pertaining to the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

“I will be delivering my speech in the debate session not only representing the Kadamaian people but also as a representative of Upko,” he said.

Benedick is the sole Upko assemblyman in the 79-seat state assembly.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/07/06/madius-benedick-leaving-question-of-upko-presidency-to-members