By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Nov 13: Incumbent Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen wants challenger Lo Khere Chiang of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to resign from his Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman post now and not if the latter were elected in the coming general election.
Chong said it is irresponsible for Lo to declare that he would relinquish his post as MPP chairman should he be elected as an MP in Stampin later, asserting that the MPP chairmanship should not be treated as insurance or a fallback plan.
“The MPP chairmanship is not for a person who treats it as an insurance (fallback plan). You (decided to) take the risk and run for election. When you lose, never mind; you still have your insurance,” said Chong at a press conference held at Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) headquarters today.
In an exclusive interview with a Chinese paper yesterday, Lo said he would be willing to resign as MPP chairman and give way to a suitable candidate in SUPP should he be elected as Stampin MP.
Meanwhile, Chong also claimed that from his encounters with Lo for the past few days regarding several local issues, Lo appeared to be clueless about the responsibilities and powers of the MPP, which he is currently chairing.
Yesterday (Nov 12), Chong and Lo went into another heated argument during a live stream on social media at a shop lot at Mile 4.5.
Chong condemned Lo for not being aware of MPP’s power, under Section 25(1) of the Building Ordinance, 1994, concerning “Powers as regards building in the ruinous and dangerous state”, to serve notice on the owners of the buildings requiring them to either repair defects or demolish the building for public safety.
“In light of that, I think he should resign from the position as a chairman of MPP, winning or losing the election, and let a better, more knowledgeable person hold the post.
“And he (Lo) can be an influencer on social media; take up a new job and be an influencer on social media,” said Chong. — DayakDaily
