KAPIT: Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi’s indication that Datuk Alvin Runggah Jimbun could succeed him as Kapit MP has fuelled speculation that the senior Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) leader may be preparing to transition to state-level politics.
Nanta recently hinted that Alvin, who serves as his political secretary, is being groomed as a potential successor for the Kapit parliamentary seat, prompting talk of a leadership transition ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The development has prompted discussion within political circles that Nanta could instead contest a proposed new state seat in Kapit if the planned increase of 17 additional Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) constituencies receives parliamentary approval.
Sources indicated that one of the proposed constituencies under the delineation exercise is DUN Melekun, which is expected to fall within the Kapit area.
Should Nanta move to the state assembly, the shift would potentially position him for a senior role in the Sarawak Cabinet, including the possibility of appointment as Deputy Premier if a vacancy arises, particularly upon the retirement of current Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Such a development would restore the region’s representation at the Deputy Premier level, a position previously held by the late Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing while serving as Baleh assemblyman.
Nanta, who has represented Kapit in Parliament since 1999, is currently Minister of Works and Secretary-General of both PBB and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
His long-standing role in federal and party leadership has made him one of the most senior political figures from the Kapit region.
While no official confirmation has been made regarding his plans to contest a state seat, his indication that Alvin could take over the Kapit parliamentary constituency has intensified expectations of a leadership transition ahead of the next electoral cycle.
