KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Progressive Action Party (SAPP)'s current status is seen as an attempt to trying its luck on both sides of the political fray, said Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) political analyst Dr Syahruddin Awang Ahmad.
Yesterday, Sabah Perikatan Nasional (PN) chief Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee had asked SAPP to review its position in the coalition if it is unhappy with PN's decision to contest using the PN banner in state elections.
Last week, SAPP president Datuk Yong Teck Lee had insisted that his party would use the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) logo and had asked PN to stay out of contesting in state polls.
"SAPP's position of support for PN at the national level and GRS at the state level shows that SAPP is trying its luck in both situations.
"Datuk Yong Teck Lee is very careful in determining the direction and fortitude to be in the status quo and at the same time establishing cooperation with influential parties at the national level," he said.
The Borneo Geopolitics electoral studies lecturer added that Yong is known to all and respected at the state and federal levels.
He added that not only was he the former chief minister, but he also gained dominance of the Likas seat from 1985 until DAP's candidate won the seat in the 15th state election until now.
"As a moderate and multi-racial party, SAPP is relevant in Sabah, but in terms of support, it depends on how voters think and make decisions based on their wishes for the particular elected member.
"Who knows if SAPP could be an option for a protest vote if voters of the incumbent want to change the vote in the next state election, especially on the basis of their dissatisfaction with the quality of services provided by the current state government."
Meanwhile, UMS political analyst Associate Professor Dr Lee Kuok Tiung said SAPP's dual membership presents a unique and complex political scenario.
He said Yong's view that all national parties, including PN, should stay away from the upcoming state election has caused displeasure among the leaders of the national parties in Sabah.
"Therefore, he should have expected a reaction from national party leaders, including Sabah PN chief Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee.
"Ahead of the state election, SAPP will likely face a crucial decision regarding its alignment, potentially needing to choose between remaining in PN or GRS."