PENAMPANG, Aug 10 — Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick has retained his position as president of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), while Datuk Donald Peter Mojuntin remains deputy president after both posts went uncontested at the party’s 17th Triennial Delegates Conference at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Hall here today.

Also elected unopposed were the five vice-presidents — Jairaiaz Joseph, Datuk Wong Thien Fook, Datuk Pangiran Lalung, Datuk Basari Sarikun and Datuk Dr Laurentius Nayan Ambu.

Meanwhile, several Upko party wings saw changes in leadership following their respective elections.

Carlye Lajimin was elected the new Upko Youth chief, with Newbaxter Tibin elected as deputy chief.

Carlye, who previously served as Upko central Youth deputy chief, replaces Felix Joseph Saang as head of the movement for the new term.

In the Upko Women’s Wing, Mohina Sidom retained her position as chief, while Lomiti Jahan was elected deputy chief.

In his winding-up speech, Ewon said he respected the democratic process and the decision made by delegates in the election.

He also congratulated all elected leaders, describing the outcome as an effort to further strengthen the party.

“This election should strengthen our party, not weaken it. All our party members are one big Upko family,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of making Upko an inclusive party by providing space and roles for members from different regions, divisions, religions and ethnic groups in Sabah.