Sabah-based KDM cuts ties with GRS govt, says it’s time to win back grassroots

Kinabalu-based Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) has severed ties with the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led state government, signaling a reorienting of the party’s political trajectory as the next general election approaches. KDM acting president Priscella Peter made the announcement at a press conference in Papar, revealing that the decision was taken by the party’s supreme council during its annual meeting today, according to local media.

"It is crucial that in preparation for the next general election, KDM, together with its supreme council, has decided to operate independently of the GRS government," Priscella emphasized. The announcement was not made hastily, as the party wished to clarify its stance to the public and its grassroots supporters well ahead of the upcoming polls.

"Incidents that arose following the last state election have clearly impacted our grassroots, and we felt it was time to communicate our political strategy clearly," she elaborated. Priscella highlighted that KDM’s decisions are not solely influenced by election calendars but are rooted in a long-term dedication to its constituents.

"We must take proactive steps to reaffirm our commitment and rebuild the trust of our grassroots," she stated. This development follows a week when Warisan president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal disclosed that his party was engaging in discussions with KDM and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku regarding potential collaboration for the 16th general election.

Shafie indicated that while no agreement had been reached, a partnership with Warisan would safeguard Sabah’s rights and interests. KDM had contested the November 2025 state election as an independent entity, securing a single seat in Paginatan before subsequently joining the GRS administration under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.