In noting that the coalition had never been defeated in the polls, Bung argued that BN was toppled when several assemblymen jumped ship after the last general election, Jesselton Times reported.

“This action (defections) not only jeopardised Sabah’s political stability, but also betrayed the mandate given by the people who chose BN through a legitimate democratic process,” he was quoted as saying.

Bung, who is also the state BN chief, said the 2018 defections should serve as a significant lesson for the people of Sabah not to allow their future to be dictated by party hoppers.

It was previously reported that Sabah BN won 31 state seats in the nationwide polls seven years ago, and had the numbers to form the state government after Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) threw its support behind Musa Aman, enabling him to be sworn in as chief minister on May 10.

However, some 48 hours later, six Sabah BN assemblymen – four from Umno and two from Upko – defected to Warisan, which had secured 21 seats.

Warisan president Shafie Apdal was subsequently sworn in as chief minister.

Bung also said Sabahans were putting up with “democratic fatigue” as voters were fed up with the lack of principles and consistency in politics.

“A government born from betrayal cannot foster confidence,” he said.