KUCHING, Nov 12: The decision of retired Anglican Bishop Datuk Bolly Lapok to enter active politics shows that democracy thrives in Sarawak’s multiracial and multireligious society.
Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth chief Datuk Snowdan Lawan pointed out that as guaranteed under the Federal Constitution, it is every citizen’s right of legal status in Sarawak to vote and be nominated as a candidate and join any political party of choice.
“It is nothing new, though a little surprising. It must have been a decision in spirit and faith such as his commitment in his theological ministry then. And so, let it be.
“But it will be interesting to see how (Bolly) will blend into politics,” he said in a statement today in response to Bolly’s announcement to join Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB).
Much as it saddened the former Bishop that racial and religious polarisation still dominated the Malaysian political scene, Snowdan said he is “equally saddened” by how Bolly abandoned his godsend ministry in the church for a possibly robust and probably a fiery political atmosphere to resolve the said polarisation.
“It will be a complete shift and a turn of events from the solemn altar sermons to the fast and furious, no-mercy-on-the-field battleground in politics,” he said.
Snowdan, who is also Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports, observed that there are high expectations that Bolly remain a fatherly figure amongst the church congregation, especially the youth, and not become a probable political tool pursuing desperate goals.
“But as he views his invitation to join PSB as a godsend, we wish him good luck and all the best.
“It is our fervent hope that he did not trade in beauty for ashes and blessings for curses,” Snowdan said. — DayakDaily
