Sabah: Sabah UMNO has identified four individuals as potential candidates for the upcoming by-elections for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state constituency. Sabah UMNO Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin stated that the party is currently assessing the criteria for a 'winnable candidate' based on engagement sessions with grassroots leaders to ensure comfortable victories in both seats.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jafry mentioned that several candidates have been identified and he has listened to all views expressed by grassroots leaders. The decision will be made at an appropriate time. Jafry, who also serves as Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, noted that the prospective candidates are male, new faces, and are seen as capable of delivering a more convincing victory for the party.
He further explained that the candidate selection process considered the performance in the last Sabah State Election, during which UMNO's majority in Lamag was reduced, and also the health factor of the then-candidate, the late Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin. Jafry shared that he had met Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who expressed the intention to defend the Barisan Nasional (BN) seats in Kinabatangan and Lamag.
The Election Commission (EC) has scheduled the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections for January 24, 2026, with nomination day on January 10 and early voting on January 20. These by-elections are being held following the death of the incumbent, Bung Moktar, on December 5.
Meanwhile, Jafry stated that the new Sabah UMNO leadership is committed to continuing the party's struggle in a more inclusive and mature manner, aligning with its role as part of the state unity government. The focus is not solely on political stability but also on ensuring fair, comprehensive, and effective state development while protecting the welfare of the people.
Jafry emphasized that Sabah UMNO and BN are dedicated to being mature, disciplined, and responsible partners in government by working with humility, listening to the people's voices, and fulfilling the trust for a more prosperous and dignified Sabah. Additionally, he announced that Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Salleh Said Keruak remains Sabah UMNO treasurer, while Datuk Nik Mohd Nadzri Nik Zawawi has been appointed Information chief, and Datuk Harun Durabi as assistant secretary.