The Kalabakan Wanita Umno is disappointed with a statement by Sabah Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) information chief Albert Kok who regarded Umno as not observing the spirit of camaraderie in BN for demanding the return of the Merotai state seat.

Its chief Hamisa Samat said all component parties in BN, including LDP, should respect the decision made by 191 Umno branches in Kalabakan for the return of the state seat to the party.

"As a leader, we take into account all proposals, suggestions and motions submitted by grassroots leaders. If we want BN to remain in power in Sabah... don't be selfish without listening to the wishes and demands of the grassroots.

"It is not correct to label us as not observing the spirit of camaraderie in BN.

"We always cooperate with all component parties in the BN and the statement by Albert will only worsen the situation if there are people who take advantage of it," she added.

LDP's Pang Yung Ming is the current assemblyman for Merotai, where majority of the voters are bumiputera.

Hamisa said Umno had always extended its cooperation and support to ensure victory for the LDP candidate in the past two elections.

She said it was also in the spirit of camaraderie that Umno did not object when LDP was given the Merotai seat during the previous two elections.

However, she said the political scenario in Kalabakan had changed.

- Bernama