Yusof: Shafie still my brother, but my loyalty is to Umno

LAHAD DATU: Silam Umno division chief Datuk Mohd Yusof Apdal has rejected the assumption by certain quarters that he places politics above family ties, that is, the bond between him and his elder brother, Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan) president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.

Yusof said sibling relations and political struggles were two different things and should not be manipulated to turn it into a big issue.

“He (Shafie) is still my brother (although) we have different principles in our political struggles and I choose to remain loyal to Umno,” said Yusof, who is also the state assemblyman for Lahad Datu, when met by reporters here, yesterday.

“Subscribing to a political ideology is an individual's right and I have chosen to remain with Umno and Barisan Nasional's (BN) struggles as I believe this sacred party has been and will be consistent in looking after the welfare of the people and in developing the country,” he added.

Yusof and Shafie were among 13 detained by the MACC for questioning into the alleged misappropriation of RM1.5 billion funds for federal rural projects for Sabah between 2009 and 2015. Yusof was released after six days of remand.

Meanwhile, Yusof reminded Umno members in Silam not to be influenced by claims and manipulations by certain quarters who were deliberately using the issue of investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to weaken the division.

“Umno members and voters should view this positively and link it to the party's political struggle.

“We need to close ranks and set aside all matters that can interfere with our preparations in facing the coming 14th general election,” he said.

Yusof also said that he would remain committed to his responsibilities and tasks as the area's elected representative despite having just undergone medical treatment.

“It's important for me to ensure the people continue to have confidence in Umno and BN as the existing government has served the people well,” he added.