KUCHING: About 100 former high ranking civil servants believe that Deputy Chief Minister and Deputy President of Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB) Alfred Jabu Anak Numpang should be the best person to succeed Chief Minister and PBB President Abdul Taib Mahmud in the event he steps down.
“Jabu is the most qualified in terms of his seniority as Deputy Chief Minister to Taib Mahmud for the past 30 years, and in the party hierarchy, he is holding the second top post.
“And thirdly, his KPI (key performance indicator) must be good otherwise Taib will not want to keep him for the last 30 years,” said Dr. Elie Luhat on behalf of the group.
Elie, a Kayan, was a high ranking officer in Sarawak Timber Industry Corporation (STIDC) before he retired a couple of years ago.
He is now a very successful farmer dealing what he calls in ‘smart farming’ such as rearing ‘ikan empurau’ (Sarawak’s most expensive fish), planting high rubber clones, and gharu.
The group comprised former schools principals, permanent secretaries, Residents, district officers and corporate figures.
“In our group, we have about 100 persons who discuss topics of the day, issues and problems that affect the day to day life of the people.
“We meet every morning over cups of coffee without fail,” he said, adding that they are usually having ‘brain storming’ sessions.
“The latest issue is of course a successor to Taib Mahmud. In our assessment, Jabu is the best person who should take over from Taib.
“In the event that Jabu declines, then we have to scout and look around in the party as to the one who should be considered as the next chief minister,”Dr. Elie added.
“That person must also be in line to take over the leadership and his selection should also follow the normal procedure.
“Failing to observe the seniority of the party members, there could be chaos in the party,” said Elie, who also considered himself as a social activist.
So what do you think?
