Sabah Umno has reaffirmed its autonomy in deciding political alliances, stating that the central Umno leadership has not interfered in its decision-making process.

This assertion follows Sabah Umno’s engagement with the state Pakatan Harapan (PH) alliance to explore potential cooperation ahead of the forthcoming Sabah state election.

Reports have indicated that both Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim are supportive of a Barisan Nasional-PH alliance in Sabah.

“Sabah Umno has full autonomy, empowering us to shape our political direction and alliances.

“This demonstrates our commitment to Sabahans,” said Sabah Umno Information Chief Datuk Suhaimi Nasir in Kota Kinabalu on Thursday.

He dismissed claims of interference from Umno’s national leadership, emphasizing that they have not directed or meddled in the state chapter’s affairs.

Suhaimi noted that the Umno Supreme Council provides advice to the state chapter on matters such as forming alliances with Sabah Pakatan Harapan, similar to the collaboration at the federal level.

“These recommendations stem from lessons of the past term, where three prime ministers and governments changed within one term, causing instability. But the final decision rests entirely with Sabah Umno,” he stated.

He stressed that Sabah Umno’s autonomy is not merely symbolic but reflects the party’s respect for the voices and aspirations of Sabahans.

“Sabah Umno and the people are like roots in the ground, with branches reaching the sky,” Suhaimi added. – January 16, 2025.