27-year-old Priscella Peter has taken on the responsibility of leading Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM), but the presence of Datuk Wetrom Bahanda remains a defining factor in the party’s direction.

Stepping in following her father’s absence due to legal matters, Priscella acknowledged Wetrom’s influence, particularly as KDM gears up for the 17th Sabah state election (PRN17).

“Even though I’ve been entrusted with this responsibility, Wetrom has a major role in KDM,” she said, emphasizing the Kota Marudu MP’s leadership experience and contributions.

Priscella took the role of president following a unanimous decision by the KDM top leadership. 

Wetrom’s appointment as KDM’s election machinery director signals his central role in shaping the party’s electoral strategy, raising questions about how leadership dynamics will unfold.

“What matters is that Wetrom and I, along with the party leadership, work together not just as a team, but as a family,” Priscella said, underscoring the importance of unity.

With KDM setting its sights on a stronger position in Sabah’s political landscape, she called on party members to stand behind the leadership’s decision.

“This is a significant responsibility, but with our collective effort, we can move forward. What we’ve planned is for the party’s future, not personal interests,” she added.

As PRN17 draws closer, KDM’s leadership will be tested—not just in the ballot box, but in how it navigates its internal dynamics. – March 8, 2025