In a statement today, Umno Youth chief Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said this decision became necessary after taking into account the rise in the number of Covid-19 infections in the state, putting the public’s safety at risk.

He said the focus should instead be on curbing the spread of the virus and helping the rakyat cope with the current economic downturn.

“We also propose for all other political parties, including Perikatan Nasional (PN), to do the same and allow for the Batu Sapi parliamentary seat to remain under Warisan.”

Asyraf’s call for the party to opt out of the polls, comes a day after Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin admitted the recent Sabah elections had contributed to a surge in Covid-19 cases in the country.

He also said it was time for politicians to “put aside their political differences” and “stand in solidarity” for the sake of the public’s safety and well-being.

The Batu Sapi seat was won by Liew in a four-cornered fight involving Warisan, BN, Amanah and PAS in the 14th general election on May 9, 2018. He had a majority of 4,619 votes.

Liew died on Oct 2 and a by-election needs to be held within 60 days from the date the Election Commission declares the seat vacant.