KUAMUT assemblyman Masiung Banah, who left the United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) last month, has joined Parti Warisan Sabah.

This brings the Chief Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal-led party’s tally in the state assembly to 29.

Masiung handed his membership application to Warisan secretary Loretto Padua Jr in Tenom today, witnessed by vice-president Peter Anthony.

He quit Upko on November 24, citing differences with the top leadership led by Wilfred Madius Tangau.

Although Upko is one of the state’s ruling parties, the conflict between Masiung and Tangau is believed to have stemmed from the party’s previous allegiance to Barisan Nasional.

Upko was part of BN until it switched sides to the Warisan-Pakatan Harapan alliance after the May 9 general election.

“Based on the fast-changing political landscape, I feel it is not fair to my constituents if I don’t make my decisions quickly,” said Masiung after handing over his membership application at the Tenom community hall.

“Therefore, it is best to pick a party that represents all races in Sabah, and that party is Warisan.” – December 18, 2018.