By Shikin Louis & Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 6: Prospective candidates seeking to contest under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will undergo health and bankruptcy screening before being shortlisted for the coming 13th Sarawak Election.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Information chief Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the coalition would also check whether prospective candidates had been convicted of criminal offences as part of its vetting process.
He said GPS had its own legal team to conduct background checks, including verifying candidates’ bankruptcy status, to ensure they were eligible to contest.
“We do not want to be embarrassed on nomination day when your opponent suddenly objects that a candidate is not eligible because he is a bankrupt,” he told a press conference at Baitul Makmur 2 building here today.
On health screening, Abdul Karim said prospective candidates would be required to disclose whether they had any chronic illnesses.
He said common conditions such as diabetes and slightly high blood pressure would not necessarily prevent someone from being considered.
“Ordinary illnesses are normal. If it is diabetes or slightly high blood pressure, that is acceptable. I have diabetes myself,” he said.
However, he indicated that more serious chronic health conditions, including those requiring dialysis, would also be taken into consideration during the selection process.
Abdul Karim said the screening was part of GPS’ efforts to ensure those selected were eligible and capable of carrying out their responsibilities as elected representatives. — DayakDaily
