KUCHING: The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) will be fielding six young faces in the upcoming 15th General Election (GE15).

SUPP President Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian confirmed that party deputy president Datuk Seri Richard Riot will be contesting but did not reveal whether he would be defending his Serian seat or otherwise.

He said the party will not be fielding state assemblyman to contest in GE15 to make way for new faces.

“Richard is a definite candidate while the other six are young faces. We want to be like Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), if you are an assemblyman then you remain as an assemblyman and likewise for member of parliament.

“There is no need to fight over it, we do not want to be like the opposition who are assemblymen but still want to compete for the Parliamentary seats as well.

“They are getting double the salary; but only work once – it is not healthy and there is no chance for us to groom the younger people,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after the Lantern of Unity ceremony organised by SUPP Central Women Section and SUPP Southern Zone Women Section at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Garden Kuching Park Garden last night.

The Deputy Premier said he has received nominations from SUPP branches, and the possible candidates are currently being vetted.

He said this is to ensure that there are no last-minute unforeseeable circumstances involving the candidates.

Noting how some branches have two or three constituencies under it, he reminded them to nominate only one candidate.

“For example, there are three constituencies under Stampin, we cannot have three candidates for one position. Everyone has equal chances of becoming a candidate.

“If you love the party and Sarawak, you will still be kind and supportive with each other instead of sabotaging in the event you are not chosen,” he said.