KUCHING: Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth chief Datuk Snowdan Lawan’s decision to withdraw from contesting the party’s deputy president post is a reflection of Sarawak’s political maturity.
Having said this, political pundit Dr Lee Kuok Tiung said the move demonstrated the ability of PRS to prioritise unity and consensus over internal rivalry, something he noted was not always evident in Sabah or Peninsular Malaysia.
“Within Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), they already have their formula. If all the parties unite, including within the party itself, that will be the strength of GPS,” he said when contacted today (Oct 14).
He added that PRS’ consensus-building showed the party placed group synergy above individual ambition.
“This clearly demonstrates support and commitment from all members. To achieve consensus and compromise is also part of democracy,” he added.
Snowdan confirmed earlier today that he would not proceed with his bid for the deputy president’s post, leaving incumbent Datuk Majang Renggi as the sole contender.
He said the decision, announced ahead of the PRS Triennial Delegates Conference (TDC) on Oct 18 and 19, was made after consultations with supporters and senior leaders, stressing that unity must remain the party’s utmost priority.
Previously, Snowdan had announced his intention to contest the post, but later reconsidered following discussions on the need to preserve solidarity within PRS as the party prepares for the state election due next year.
As such, Dr Lee said the withdrawal not only safeguarded harmony within PRS but also helped strengthen GPS’ overall position ahead of the next state polls.
“Obviously, they see group synergy as more important than individual competition. This united front will help GPS maintain its bargaining strength,” he added.
