LIM Guan Eng should make way to allow fresh candidates to run for the National DAP Chairman position in the upcoming Central Executive Committee (CEC) election, which could help reduce tensions within the party.
Veteran DAP member Charles Santiago claimed that recent actions by the Bagan MP have clashed with the party's principles, leading to various internal issues.
He noted that Guan Eng's controversial remarks have raised doubts about his suitability for the role. "In a democratic system, it's up to representatives to shape the future of a political party by selecting their leaders," he explained.
However, due to the many concerns surrounding Guan Eng, there’s growing frustration among party members.
"His actions have sometimes overshadowed those of the Secretary-General, which has fuelled anger among many," he added.
As a result, there are calls from grassroots members and other factions within the party for DAP to consider a new chairman," he told Sinar Ahad.
This statement comes amid rumours that DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke met with Guan Eng to dissuade him from running again, aiming to calm the situation within the party.
Loke has also been apparently trying to convince the former Finance Minister not to seek the chairmanship while still being part of the CEC. Meanwhile, DAP Perak Deputy Chairman, Dr. Abdul Aziz Bari, believes that the decision on whether Guan Eng will run for the chairmanship should ultimately be his.
However, he emphasised that Guan Eng needs to gauge how the grassroots feel about him in light of the party's recent changes and the support he has received.
"We’re giving him the opportunity to run, but the final call will be up to the delegates," he said, stressing the importance of leadership.
Political analyst Professor Dr. James Chin believes that Guan Eng is unlikely to follow the suggestion not to run for the National DAP Chairman position.
He thinks Guan Eng will stick to his plan to contest, likely weighing factors like his family's standing in the party.
"I honestly find it unfair to ask him not to participate. Competitions should always be fair," he shared in a Facebook post. – March 9, 2025
