STAR member's alleged molest case nothing to do with party

 By Olivia Miwil - June 6, 2021 @ 7:38pm

Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. - NSTP file pic

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) will not protect any party member if he or she is involved in any wrongdoing or any action that tarnishes the party's good name.

Party president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said this practice also applies to the recent case in which a party leader was investigated by the police for allegedly outraging the modesty of a beauty pageant contestant.

He said the action by the man was his own responsibility, and it has nothing to do with the party.

"Any attempt to drag the party into this circus is irresponsible and must be denounced.

"To show our seriousness on the issue, this individual has been suspended from all posts within the party.

"The party's disciplinary board will meet as soon as possible to assess his membership status," he said in a statement today.

It was previously reported that the leader involved in the case is a division chief.

Kitingan added that the incident caused distress among STAR members and exposed the party to heavy assaults from their political opponents.

"I urge all members to stand behind the party's leadership rather than individuals hiding behind the party's name."

Jeffrey also backed the call made by the Unduk Ngadau Committee chairman Joanna Kitingan, who urged all victims to come forward and assist in the police investigation.