‘Appointment of community leaders must be shielded from political interference'
SIBU (June 18): Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) firmly asserts that elected representatives and political parties must not interfere in the appointment of community leaders, especially Tuai Rumah, across Sarawak.
Its president Major (Rtd) Moses Ripai said the appointment of these leaders must be based on traditional customs, community consensus and the character and competence of individuals, not on political affiliation or party loyalty.
'Community leaders are the backbone of indigenous governance, and must be shielded from political manipulation,' he said in a statement.
Moses said PBDS called for a clear separation between political interests and cultural institutions, and urged the government to respect the rights of each community in choosing its own leaders independently.
In anticipation of the upcoming Sarawak state elections, he also invited all opposition parties in Sarawak to form a united en bloc pact.
He said the time has come to set aside individual party interests, and work collectively towards meaningful change for the people of Sarawak.
'A fragmented opposition only serves to strengthen the status quo. A united front can deliver a more effective challenge to the ruling coalition, foster a more competitive democratic process, and ensure the voices of rural and marginalised communities are heard and respected.'
Moses said PBDS was ready to engage in open, respectful discussions with any opposition party committed to justice, indigenous rights and fair governance, and like-minded political parties to share the same struggles and visions.
He said en bloc opposition parties would be a strong opposition pact in the state, and would chart the future of a new era for Sarawak if they were able to take over the government.
He said the native customary rights (NCR) issue has always been the chief issue of previous and present PBDS.
Moses also reminded all PBDS members, supporters and the public that any statement issued using the party's name is null and void, unless it has been officially approved and released by the party president, information chief, or supreme council.
He said this protocol exists to protect the integrity, unity and public credibility of the party.
'Unauthorised statements do not reflect the party's official stance, and must not be regarded as the representative of PBDS,' he said, referring to cases of a certain individual who used the party's name for making statements recently.
He added disciplinary actions may be taken against individuals who issue or circulate unauthorised statements on behalf of PBDS.
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