PETALING JAYA: A movement of independent candidates dubbed the “Black Wave” is gearing up to take on major political parties in this year’s Sabah state election, offering voters a no-nonsense alternative to traditional party politics.
Kudat MP Verdon Bahanda, who spearheaded the movement at the last general election (GE15), believes that Sabahans are ready to back independents who prioritise serving the people over party interests.
He said that disillusionment with past administrations, both national and local, had created an opening for independent candidates to make a serious impact in the state legislative assembly.
Speaking to FMT, Verdon said many had urged him to revive the movement, which was instrumental in his surprise victory over Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) candidate Ruddy Awah in the 15th general election three years ago.
“Based on ground sentiment, no single party is likely to win an outright majority.
“Around 80% of young voters remain undecided and put more trust in individuals rather than political parties, which are just platforms,” he said.
With this in mind, Verdon said independent candidates could emerge as potential kingmakers in the next Sabah government if they could secure enough key seats.
He said the “Black Wave” movement aims to win at least four or five state constituencies in the upcoming polls.
In the 2020 Sabah state election, three out of 56 independent candidates won: Masiung Banah (Kuamut), Ruddy (Pitas), and Rubin Balang (Kemabong). All three later aligned with chief minister Hajiji Noor’s administration.
Verdon said that any cooperation with GRS, Barisan Nasional (BN), Warisan, or Pakatan Harapan (PH) would only be decided based on the election outcome.
“Every decision must serve the people’s best interests. For example, I supported the unity government to help address Kudat’s issues, as it remains one of the poorest areas in Sabah.
“But I am not tied to any party and will always speak freely for the people,” said Verdon, who will be defending his Tanjung Kapor seat.
He said that independent candidates were already emerging in Banggi, Bengkoka, and Pitas – three state constituencies under the Kudat parliamentary seat.
“Many are eager to contest on the ‘Black Wave’ platform. Our only condition is that they must commit to fighting corruption and leakage while standing united in demanding Sabah’s rights,” he said.
The 17th election for the Sabah legislative assembly must be held by Dec 9 this year.
