Berita Harian reported that Sabah Umno information chief Suhaimi Nasir said the state elections should be held “without delay” as he claimed that the GRS-led government was no longer seen as championing the people’s interests.

“This would allow the people to choose a new government that can genuinely protect the interests of Sabahans,” he said.

Suhaimi, who is also the Libaran MP, stated that Sabah Umno is ready to contest the next state election if it is brought forward.

“Umno’s efforts on the ground are not just for the upcoming state election. They are to fulfil the responsibility and trust bestowed upon Umno to protect Sabahans at all times,” he said.

He was asked to comment on the most suitable timing for the next state elections in light of the current corruption allegations against the Sabah government.

Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor has faced calls, particularly from Umno, to step down over the alleged mining scandal in Sabah. However, this has been rebuffed by several GRS leaders who said the allegations did not implicate Hajiji.

Sabah Umno has denied being the mastermind behind the leaks and challenged Hajiji to sue the person who leaked the videos tying several Sabah assemblymen to the alleged scandal.

Last Saturday, a GRS spokesman dismissed the likelihood of the state government calling for early elections, which are due by December 2025.

GRS information chief Joniston Bangkuai said the government of GRS chairman Hajiji was committed to preserving political stability and that attempts to undermine the state government would fail.