KUCHING: Political observers noted that the Layar state constituency in Betong is one of the most talked about seats for the coming state election.
This is following speculations that the incumbent since 1974, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang, may decide to ‘call it a day’ but this has yet to be confirmed by Barisan Nasional (BN) and top PBB leaders.
Speculation is rife that his son Gerald Rentap shall be nominated to replace him if he decides not to seek re-election.
And rumours have also been going around that Nelson Kloni, a former political secretary to the chief minister and a PBB strongman in Layar, has indicated interest to contest in place of the incumbent.
“The ground sentiments are that people desire a change. But the change from father to son is not acceptable…as this is akin to creating a political dynasty.
“They feel it is a big risk to field his son,” said a political observer.
Therefore, they feel that Nelson Kloni, a strong PBB veteran, is a creditable replacement since he is well-liked and well-known in Betong.
“In doing so, it would ensure that the Layar seat would safely remain under BN.”
However, word has gotten around on the ground that it may be worth considering a compromise candidate should there be uncertainty in the candidacy for the Layar seat.
One such person is Paul Ningkan, the son of the late Tan Sri Stephen Kalong Ningkan, who still has well-rooted connections in the area.
His candidacy should be looked at from a larger perspective for the benefit of the people in the Layar constituency and BN as a whole.
It is said that Paul is a PBB member, which makes it possible for him to stand on a BN-PBB ticket in Layar.
Paul’s father was the first chief minister of Sarawak.
The late Ningkan was defeated by Jabu in 1974, and Jabu has won successive elections to retain his position as Layar assemblyman until now.
Two years later, Jabu was appointed Deputy Chief Minister which he has held until today.
Speculation is also rife that Betong MP Datuk Seri Douglas Uggah will contest in the state election in Bukit Saban and eventually take over Jabu’s place as deputy chief minister.
However, Uggah who is also Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities has remained coy when posed the question by newsmen.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem, who is also PBB president, is expected to announce the party’s election candidates list in March.