Will GPS retain veterans or opt for new generation?

KUCHING: Three senior Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) leaders have come into focus as the coalition weighs generational change following the dissolution of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Oct 26.

Political analyst Prof Dr Novel Lyndon of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities said based on current political developments veterans Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Datuk Seri Roland Sagah are among the GPS names to watch.

However, he stressed that none had been officially confirmed as stepping aside, with the final decision resting with GPS leadership.

“From a political science perspective, any changes involving these senior figures would represent a significant generational transition within GPS,” he said.

Uggah, the incumbent for Bukit Saban and Deputy Premier, has left the decision on whether he should continue contesting to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president.

In June, Uggah said the matter was the prerogative of party leadership, dismissing speculation about his retirement as something that should not be decided based on rumours.

Abdul Karim, the Asajaya incumbent and PBB information chief, has been more explicit about his willingness to make way for new leadership after 25 years and five terms as an assemblyman.

On Oct 23, he said he was prepared to step aside but would continue serving if the party and constituents still needed him.

“On my side, I’m prepared. I’m prepared to give up,” he said, adding that he could not refuse if his services were still required.

His final candidacy, however, remains subject to the party leadership’s decision.

Sagah, the Tarat incumbent, has meanwhile indicated that he remains ready to defend his seat if selected.

On Oct 26, he said he was prepared to contest again, leaving the decision to the party.

Novel’s assessment places the three veterans among the names to watch as GPS balances continuity with the introduction of new faces.

While experienced leaders bring institutional knowledge and established political networks, a generational transition could also create opportunities for younger leaders to take on greater responsibilities.

With the state election approaching, the question is whether GPS will retain its veteran representatives or make way for a new generation.

The coalition has signalled a mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces, but has yet to publicly confirm who among the incumbents will not be in the race.