DAP leaders who continue to be shrouded with slander and vicious criticism is testament that they have not changed their principles though they hold top positions in the government, said party chairman Lim Guan Eng.
Alluding to how his father, the iconic DAP leader Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang had endured slander throughout some six decades of active politics, Guan Eng stressed that those who continue to advocate principles and good governance, will continue to be slandered.
"For our leaders who continue to be slandered and attacked by racists and extremists, this shows that you have not changed though you hold high posts in government," Guan Eng said.
Highlighting the three pillars of Kit Siang, Guan Eng said that there are three elements which helped him sustain a legendary career as an opposition leader.
"Laoda (big brother nickname for Kit Siang) passionately believed in a Malaysian Malaysia and justice for all.
“Few can empathise what he had to go through when he was repeatedly arrested, detained without trial and prosecuted in courts."
The number two pillar was his loyalty to the party, people and country, marked by his refusal to be bought while aspiring to gain knowledge, said Guan Eng.
"We know Kit Siang’s integrity stands out. Equally impressive is his capacity to learn that has inspired many of us during our difficult years in opposition and the initial years in government."
His third pillar is his willingness to look at the bigger picture rather than his own political career, said Lim.
"His loyal support to Prime Minister (Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim was premised on his faith that Anwar and DAP can carry out the reforms necessary to make Malaysia better."
"We have seen it happening when (DAP secretary - general Anthony) Loke Siew Fook succeeded in getting higher allocations for independent Chinese schools and (DAP deputy chairman) Gobind Singh Deo has managed to bring about the review of the security ordinance (SOSMA). We look forward to more on the way this year."
"Though Laoda has retired, he continues to be slandered by the racists and extremists, the latest for being a cousin of Chin Peng.
“This only proves that Laoda has not changed his principles when he is in opposition to the present moment when DAP is in government," said Lim.
Guan Eng is speculated to be facing a tough time in winning a slot in the CEC national elections, which is due next month following a fallout with the Penang DAP leadership.
Among those who may contest from Penang besides Lim, are his sister Lim Hui Ying, the state DAP secretary, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, Penang DAP deputy chairman Ramkarpal Singh Deo and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
There are 30 elected spots for grabs in the party elections while several are appointed to the committee, which is the main leadership body for the socialist party. - February 20, 2025.
