NO leader is bigger than a political party, and no generation can lead forever, said Penang DAP veteran Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh.
Commenting on the alleged spat between Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his predecessor Lim Guan Eng at the recently concluded state legislative sitting, Phee, 74, said that every political party must eventually renew itself and give space for the next generation to grow, gain experience and carry greater responsibilities in the struggles ahead.
Posting on social media, Phee, who served four terms as a state executive councillor in Penang, said that at a time when external forces were trying to weaken DAP, the party must display maturity and collective responsibility.
"As someone who has served the party and Penang for over three decades, I feel compelled to remind all leaders, especially senior leaders, that the people expect DAP to provide stability, mature leadership and responsible governance — not continuous public attacks against our own party-led state government."
Differences in views are normal in any democratic party, and should be resolved behind closed doors, he said.
"Constructive criticism also has its place. However, there is a difference between offering constructive views and creating continuous public pressure and political tension against one’s own government and Chief Minister."
For many years, Chow has exercised considerable patience, restraint and professionalism in leading Penang despite repeated internal attempts at provocation.
"If there were genuine concerns regarding government matters, I believe such issues should first be raised through the appropriate internal discussions and party-government channels. As a senior leader with vast experience in government and party affairs, party discipline and collective responsibility must always be upheld."
It is difficult for the grassroots and public to understand why certain matters were not first properly discussed internally through the established avenues instead of being repeatedly raised in the public arena and the state assembly, Phee said.
"The rakyat want to see leaders solving problems together, not engaging in prolonged public political sparring that ultimately weakens public confidence in the government and creates confusion among grassroots supporters.
"Today, many younger leaders in DAP are already carrying major responsibilities in government and on the ground. They are working hard to engage communities, solve issues and strengthen public confidence under increasingly difficult political and economic conditions. They should be guided and strengthened, not constantly subjected to internal public attacks and political manoeuvring," added Phee. - May 17, 2026.
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