SAPP deputy president Edward Dagul reiterated party president Yong Teck Lee’s stand that no external party should force SAPP to decide on its alliances or coalition memberships.

“Does Kiandee think that by uttering offensive brandings we will be cowed into hastening our decision?

“SAPP has been consistent in the political struggle for Sabah rights and autonomy under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and is willing to work with any like-minded party or politician.

“Whatever we decide will be with Sabah’s interest in mind, and any announcement on this coalition membership matter will be made at the appropriate time and forum,” he said in a statement.

Dagul also urged PN to stay away from the next Sabah elections, saying SAPP’s stand was that only Sabah parties should contest in the state polls.

He cited how Bersatu opted not to contest in the 2021 Sarawak elections, with Ali Biju withdrawing from defending his Krian seat as an independent candidate to appease Gabungan Parti Sarawak.

“Why can’t Bersatu take the lead and show an example to other Malaya parties to also opt out of the Sabah state elections?” he said.

SAPP has been urged by state PN chief Kiandee and GRS secretary-general Masidi Manjun to choose between staying in PN or GRS.

Yong, however, brushed off such calls, saying no external party should pressure SAPP, a founding member of GRS, to choose its political alliances.