FMT was made to understand that many division chiefs have also signed statutory declarations of support for Hajiji, who is chairman of the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah.

The expression of support comes as Hajiji has faced criticism arising from allegations of a mining scandal in which several GRS state assemblymen are allegedly implicated.

Earlier today, Sabah PKR secretary Sazalye Donol Abdullah said that the party fully backed and trusted Hajiji to continue leading the state government, citing Sabah’s political stability and economic growth.

Sazalye, the Kota Marudu PKR chief, also said Sabah PKR rejected any attempt to topple Hajiji’s administration as it would lead to political instability and could lead to “a new crisis” in Sabah.

However, a Sabah PKR leader told the media that the press release was Sazalye’s personal statement and did not reflect Sabah PKR’s official stand.

FMT has reached out to PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh for comment.

Last month, Sabah PKR information chief Razeef Rakimin said Hajiji’s government should be allowed to function as usual while investigations into the alleged mining scandal are being held.

On the other hand, the central DAP leadership said it gave its Sabah chapter the “mandate” to review its position in the state government over the scandal, reiterating its stand against corruption.

A series of videos linking several Sabah assemblymen to an alleged mining scandal had been viewed as part of an Umno-led plot against the GRS government.

The videos, leaked by a purported whistleblower, had led to Sabah Umno demanding the resignation of Hajiji.