SUPP stresses commitment to freedom of association amid political dynamics

KUCHING: The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) recognises that freedom of association in politics is closely linked to the safeguarding of individual rights such as freedom of speech, assembly and expression, says secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting.

In a statement on Friday (Dec 29), he highlighted that these rights collectively contribute to the resilience of democratic societies.

“Hence, SUPP respects the rights of individuals to join any political party or engage in the political causes of their choice.

“However, even as we recognise that freedom of association is a fundamental principle, there can be limitations imposed in certain situations, such as when the activities of a group threaten the stability and harmonious workings of a government.”

Furthermore, he expressed concern about the potential risk to societal wellbeing posed by self-serving politicians and individuals with sinister motives and ambitions. He urged leadership to rise to the occasion when such threats arise.

“Thankfully, Sarawak is spared from the political postures and mudslinging happening elsewhere in the country. It is SUPP’s desire to see our many blessings, including moderate and mature politics in our beloved homeland, be jealously guarded.”

Ting clarified SUPP’s stance for those eager to join the coalition, stating that there is an expectation for individuals, including new members or citizens, to respect the established norms, rules, and processes of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.

His comments were in reference to the statement made by Premier and GPS chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Dec 25.

Abang Johari mentioned that the coalition had not given the “green light” for Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) members to join the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) to become one of its component parties.

“As a component part of GPS, SUPP is glad that our GPS chairman has cleared the air over the matter. The premier’s statement was in line with our coalition’s guiding principle of consultation and consensus among partners in all important matters pertaining to GPS,” Ting affirmed.

“On this particular issue, SUPP reaffirms Tan Sri Abang Johari’s statement. Indeed, GPS has not met to discuss the PDP-PSB merger, and we also think that it is a ‘private matter’ between the parties concerned.”