KOTA KINABALU: The change of leadership in the Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition could pave the way for stronger collaboration with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), said political analyst Dr Romzi Ationg.
Yesterday, United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president Datuk Ewon Benedick was appointed to lead Sabah PH, replacing the previous leadership, which typically relied on a Peninsula-based party leader.
GRS is a coalition of Sabah-based parties.
Ewon replaced Datuk Seri Christina Liew, the head of PKR Kota Kinabalu branch, following the PH Sabah election.
This new development, according to Romzi, signals the potential for a closer partnership between GRS and PH, especially given Ewon's apparent inclination toward such a move.
"Whether this collaboration can materialise depends on Upko's ability to bring all parties together and reduce voter confusion ahead of the state elections," said the associate professor at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).
He added that Ewon's leadership reflects growing support from PH components for Upko, as the party plays an increasingly prominent role within the coalition.
Romzi also said that Ewon's local leadership could make PH more relatable and appealing to voters in Sabah, a sentiment echoed by Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) analyst Tony Paridi Bagang.
"The appointment of Datuk Ewon Benedick as the new Sabah PH chairman reflects the coalition's confidence in a locally-based party and Ewon's leadership, Romzi said.
Meanwhile, Tony said this decision highlights PH's commitment to fostering equality within its coalition, while strategically strengthening its grassroots support in Sabah. He added that the shift could be seen as a strategic effort by PH to gain an upper hand and solidify its base in the state.
However, Tony warned that this new leadership role would place significant pressure on Upko to perform well in the upcoming state election.
The success of the new leadership will depend on Upko's ability to navigate the shifting political landscape and effectively unify voters behind their vision, he said.