Romzi Ationg of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) said Bung had made significant contributions to Sabah Umno and had become a hugely popular figure in rural areas.
Romzi told FMT that the leadership of the six-term Kinabatangan MP was all the more needed with Sabah headed for its 17th state election soon.
“Bung still holds a strong influence. The way he speaks resonates with the people in the villages. When he’s there, whatever he says can influence the village folk. His capabilities cannot be belittled.
“He has contributed a lot to Sabah Umno. Besides, there hasn’t been a decision on his case yet, so he should be allowed to resume his work (as Sabah Umno chief),” Romzi said.
On Monday, Bung and his wife, Zizie Izette Abdul Samad, were ordered to enter their defence on charges of corruption and abetment over a RM150 million Felcra investment.
Bung, the non-executive chairman of Felcra, was charged on May 3, 2019 with two counts of receiving bribes of RM2.2 million and RM262,500 to obtain Felcra’s approval to invest RM150 million in Public Mutual unit trusts.
Ex-Petagas assemblyman James Ligunjang had called for Bung to step down as Sabah Umno chief, saying political leaders accused of wrongdoing should take a leave of absence until their names are cleared.
Bung however said he would not entertain such calls and would continue carrying out his responsibilities as the state Umno chief and elected representative. He is also the Lamag assemblyman.
Bilcher Bala, also of UMS, said Bung was Sabah Umno’s main pillar, and that making him step down would significantly weaken the party’s sway in the Bornean state.
He said Bung’s popularity among Sabahans was due to his outspoken nature in the Dewan Rakyat and Sabah legislature.
If he were to be replaced, Bilcher said Bung’s loyalists might quit Umno in protest and join local parties such as Warisan or Gabungan Rakyat Sabah.
Meanwhile, Romzi said Bung’s successor would need to be both a political veteran and someone who had good ties with the former deputy chief minister.
He named former Sabah chief minister Salleh Said Keruak as one of the most suitable candidates, saying the state Umno chapter could not afford to be led by a political novice.
Sabah Umno needed someone who was experienced and capable of dealing with the central party leadership, he added.