Rina Jainal was formerly with Warisan before leaving the party in 2022 to join PHRS, which later became a component of GRS. (Facebook pic)
PETALING JAYA: Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (PHRS) deputy president Rina Jainal today claimed that her suspension from the party, just three days before nominations for the Sabah polls, was akin to an act of sabotage.
The former Kukusan assemblyman said the suddenness of her suspension raised suspicions that it was aimed at preventing her from being fielded to defend her seat in the Nov 29 state election.
“I was very shocked when I was informed about the suspension. Why did it happen just three days before nominations? This is very strange.
“If there was any internal issue (in PHRS) we should have been able to discuss it amicably within the party,” she said, according to Utusan Borneo.
Rina, formerly of Warisan, also said the decision had disrupted the preparations of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) machinery for the state polls, and disappointed grassroot members.
She said she remained committed to championing the people of Kukusan despite the “unexpected challenge”, and that her “fight does not end here”.
She said would discuss her next steps with her supporters and family.
PHRS secretary-general Christy Chok said Rina was suspended for multiple breaches of party discipline by making public statements that damaged the image of the party and its president.
Chok also said the party decided not to nominate Rina to defend her Kukusan seat following consultation with its Supreme Council and branch leaders.
Rina was with Warisan before leaving the party in 2022 to join PHRS, which later became a component of GRS.
