Mohamad, better known as Tok Mat, described Rahman’s decision to withdraw as the candidate for the Tempasuk seat as a noble gesture.

He also said Rahman’s decision showed that the former federal minister was a responsible leader who prioritised the interest of the party, Bernama reported.

“This is good, because he made way for a local leader,” Mohamad was quoted as saying.

“And he is very happy to make way for the Kota Belud Umno chief,” he said, referring to Azwan Norjan.

Rahman, who is Sabah Umno deputy chief, announced his withdrawal from the race last night, three days after being announced as a candidate for the Nov 29 state election.

Rahman, who was Kota Belud MP for two terms, said he wanted to make way for new blood to take part in the state polls.

Sabah BN chairman Bung Moktar Radin later told FMT that Rahman did not pull out of the polls because he faced rejection, saying his candidacy had been well received.

“There was no issue with his candidacy,” Bung was reported as saying.