The PKR leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the post should have never been contested in the first place, adding that the election held earlier this month was the first time a poll was held since the Sabah PH was formed in 2017.
Traditionally, the Sabah PH components, namely, PKR, DAP, Upko and Amanah would name a PKR leader to chair the coalition’s state chapter, the source said.
“Sabah is led by PKR, so even if the chairman is replaced, it should still be someone from PKR,” the source told FMT.
“Christina Liew has moved on, but we are asking for clarification because the leadership structure in Sabah PH is based on party allocations,” said the source.
The source also claimed that the election held by Sabah PH was an attempt to sideline PKR.
Liew was ousted as the Sabah PH chairman, a post she held since 2017, after losing to Upko president Ewon Benedick by three votes on Dec 1.
However, there is speculation that Liew could return to head the state chapter.
On Friday night, the Api Api assemblyman was reported as saying that discussions were being held on her possible return as the Sabah PH chairman, adding that talks were held with PKR president Anwar Ibrahim and members of the state leadership council.
Sabah Pakatan Harapan Youth leaders, however, have called on the coalition’s component parties to respect the election results.
‘Not a puppet’
The source went on to claim that Upko and DAP had lobbied “very hard” to oust Liew.
“They had wanted Liew removed because she is not easy to control. She is not a puppet, which makes it difficult for them.”
Meanwhile, Sabah DAP deputy chief Chan Foong Hin emphasised the importance of respecting the principles of democracy.
“Every political party goes through elections, and regardless of the outcome, we must honour the democratic process.”
Chan, the Kota Kinabalu MP, urged coalition members to focus on the future rather than on internal disputes and leadership changes.
“It’s time for us to move on and concentrate on preparing for the upcoming state elections.
“We have important work ahead, and engaging in internal disputes will only hinder our progress,” the deputy plantation and commodities minister said.