KUALA LUMPUR – A Barisan Nasional (BN) assemblyman is set to be a member of the DAP-led Penang state government.
This was announced by DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke following the party’s central executive committee meeting today.
Two BN representatives successfully won in Penang during the elections on Saturday.
“One of them will be part of the state executive council headed by Chow Kon Yeow,” said Loke.
The two BN representatives are Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and Rashidi Zinol, both from Umno.
Reezal won the Bertam state seat, while Rashidi clinched the Sg Acheh seat.
There were earlier speculations that Reezal, a former minister, would likely be named as a deputy chief minister in the state government.
Nothing to do with Umno
Loke also dismissed rumours that the appointment came amid calls by certain Umno members for the party to review its relations with DAP.
“Cooperation within the unity government is strong and we will continue as usual,” he said.
Loke also declined to comment on calls by certain Umno members for party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to step down.
“That is an internal party matter and nothing for us to comment on,” he said.
No Muda-DAP merger
On a separate matter, the DAP secretary-general also dismissed a proposal by party stalwart Lim Kit Siang for Muda to merge with DAP.
“We will focus on strengthening our own youth wing.
“Lim’s suggestion is his personal opinion and we do not have such plans.
“Our focus right now is to strengthen our own party,” said Loke. – The Vibes, August 14, 2023
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