Wilfred Yap rejects Chong’s claims on electoral process, calls for unity on Sarawak rights
Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has rejected allegations by Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, describing them as misleading and based on selective interpretation of constitutional and electoral matters.
Yap said attempts to link Sarawak United People’s Party and Gabungan Parti Sarawak to the Election Commission’s decisions ignore the actual constitutional framework governing the body.
“Under Article 114 of the Federal Constitution, members of the Election Commission are appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong based on the advice of the Prime Minister after consultation with the Conference of Rulers,” he said.
He pointed out that the current Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, leads the Pakatan Harapan coalition, which includes DAP.
“Given this arrangement, it is factually incorrect and misleading to suggest that SUPP or GPS has any control over the redelineation process or the appointment of Election Commission members. Any insinuation that GPS or SUPP is managing or manipulating the Election Commission is baseless,” he said.
On claims of gerrymandering, Yap said differences in voter size between urban and rural constituencies should not be simplified into a single narrative.
“Electoral boundaries in Sarawak are determined based on geography, accessibility and the need to ensure effective representation for both urban and vast rural regions. Reducing this to a simple numerical comparison fails to reflect these realities,” he added.
He also dismissed arguments that changes in seat allocation over time prove manipulation, stressing that such changes are influenced by demographic shifts, administrative considerations and electoral competitiveness.
“The core issue is balanced and fair representation, taking into account Sarawak’s unique geography and dispersed population. Any serious discussion on electoral reform must recognise this reality rather than rely on politically convenient narratives,” he said.
Yap urged Chong and DAP Sarawak to move away from personal attacks and instead engage constructively within constitutional frameworks.
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