KUCHING: The incumbent of P216 Hulu Rajang Datuk Billy will be replaced by PRS’ operation director Ugak Anak Kumbong for the 13th General Election (GE13).

The President of Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Tan Sri Dr. James Jemut Masing said the decision was made last year and has never changed.

“PRS has submitted the name since last year as Ugak is the best candidate for that constituency and to replace Billy who has been the MP for five terms (since 1990).

We believe Billy will fully support Ugak as Ugak has been assisting him for the past five years. Furthermore, they are in-laws as Ugak’s sister is married to Billy’s brother,” he explained.

Masing pointed out Billy is loyal to BN over the years and there is no reason to doubt his sincerity and willingness to assist Ugak. He (Billy) has also been informed that he will not be nominated to contest again for GE13 earlier.

He was speaking to the media after the official announcement of the Barisan Nasional candidates for GE13 by the Chief Minister Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud at Party Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Hqs at Jalan Bako here yesterday.

Commenting on the land issues, Masing who is also the Minister of Land Development said the issues have been raised up in every election, over and over again.

“The implementation of the perimeter survey has given the best security for Native Customary Rights (NCR) land owners. Thus, there is nothing much the oppositions can raise about. They have nothing new,” he said.

Meanwhile, dams built in the State are meant to attract more people or investment to generate clean and cheap energy. The dams are built when they are needed.

We don’t simply build dams” he stressed.

Although PBS is confident, the party will not relax or take things for granted as they will continues to fight hard.

(Source, Sarawak Tribune, 17 April 2013)