By JAMES LEONG
KOTA KINABALU: Kapayan Assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang has labelled Cyril Liew’s decision to resign from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming 17th State Election as an “act of desperation,” expressing deep regret over his abrupt departure.
Cyril, who served as the People’s Development Leader (PPM) for the Kapayan constituency under Jannie, announced his resignation during a public event alongside Kudat Member of Parliament Verdon Bahanda on Tuesday night.
In a press statement issued yesterday, Jannie, who represents Kapayan for DAP, confirmed the party had accepted Cyril’s resignation and emphasized that he held no official position within DAP Sabah.
“I trusted Cyril to assist me in managing projects and addressing community concerns in Kapayan. His choice to turn against the party and contest independently is deeply disappointing,” she said.
Jannie pushed back against claims made by Cyril regarding his contributions, stating that the work he cited was part of his mandated duties as PPM and a result of collaborative efforts within her team.
She also denied allegations of staff neglect raised by former aide Apain Soriun, who had criticized her leadership on social media.
“Apain was terminated due to persistent poor performance, absenteeism, and refusal to fulfil office responsibilities. These false narratives are attempts to tarnish our team’s reputation,” she asserted.
The Assemblywoman concluded with a pointed rebuke: “There is no honour in climbing higher if it means stepping over the hands that once lifted you.”
The statement marks escalating tensions within Sabah’s political landscape as parties prepare for the State Election.
party had accepted Cyril’s (below ), resignation and emphasized
that he held no official position within DAP Sabah.
