By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 2: The issue of who would contest in Baleh constituency following the demise of Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing who was its assemblyman has not been discussed by Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) yet.
PRS deputy president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum said it is still too early to talk about who would stand in Baleh.
“We have yet to talk about who to succeed him (the late Masing). To us (PRS), he is still (our leader and) his spirit is still with us,” he told a press conference at Masing’s private residence here today.
He also quashed rumours and reports about party infighting for the top leadership post following a Supreme Council meeting held on the day of Masing’s passing on Sunday (Oct 31).
“So we had our meeting in order for us to show our unity and (discuss about how) to continue the legacy left behind by our party president.
“The meeting was also about preparing for our election as we want to deliver the 11 seats for PRS,” he added.
Salang also emphasised that he was merely deputising for the late Masing as provided by the party’s Constitution which is supported by the entire Supreme Council.
“I’m the deputy president of PRS but I’m not the acting president.
“As the deputy president, it is my responsibility to hold together the party leadership and membership.
“So it is not that I want to be leading the party as speculated by certain quarters,” he said.
Salang gave assurance that PRS is still very much united and anyone who doubts it can ask any PRS Supreme Council member who attended the meeting.
The PRS seats are Balai Ringin, Bukit Begunan, Batang Ai, Tamin, Kakus, Samalaju, Murum, Belaga, Pelagus, Baleh and Ngemah. — DayakDaily
