THE DAP central executive committee (CEC) has thrown its support to Penang DAP chairman Chow Kon Yeow to continue leading Penang as the state’s Chief Minister.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said the party leadership, including the CEC, and himself as the secretary-general, had decided to support Chow as the Chief Minister of Penang before the recent state election.
“We gave our commitment to him and there was no other Penang Chief Minister candidate.
“Chow successfully led Penang DAP to win all 19 seats contested by the party, and together with other component parties, formed a strong state government.
“However, in just a few months after the formation of the state government, there were rumours reported in the media that there were ‘gerakan’ (movements) to replace him (Chow).
“These rumours are untrue. There are no conspiracies to replace Chow as the Chief Minister of Penang,” he told a media conference after opening the state annual DAP convention at The TOP in Komtar, today.
Loke said the party’s stand was clear.
“As far as I know, there is no discussion among the party leaders to replace him (Chow).
“We want Chow to continue to execute his responsibility and at the same time, strengthen the Penang government.
“The state administration must address issues that are brought up by the people, and Chow has given us his commitment.
“I was told that the Penang government welcomes queries not only from the Opposition but also from state assemblymen and backbenchers aligned with the ruling coalition during sessions of the Penang Legislative Assembly. There are no restrictions for anyone to debate.
“Ask if you have any questions,” Loke said.
Separately, Loke said Chow should also have a succession plan for the Chief Minister post in Penang.
“The Penang State Constitution limits the Penang Chief Minister post to two terms of service, and Chow is in his second and final term.
“We cannot leave a vacuum for that position or wait until the state assembly is dissolved (to act).
“There must be a transition or succession plan.
“We have not chosen any successor for that position yet as it is still very early. We still have about four more years before the state election.
“During this period, a successor can be identified based on the individual’s capabilities, potential, and performance,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Loke spoke about Penang’s achievements under strong leadership since 2008.
He emphasised the state and Federal Government’s commitments to prioritising integrity and good governance for the people.
Loke also highlighted the upcoming projects for Penang which include the state’s Light Rail Transit (LRT), and the Penang International Airport expansion.
DAP national chairman Lim Guan Eng reminded all its party leaders and members to be disciplined and abide by the party directives.
“Party leaders in government roles must remember that their positions are owed to the DAP. The elections have demonstrated that people support the party collectively rather than individual leaders.
“As elected representatives, we must listen to the people and ensure that civil servants implement our policies that benefit the people,” he said.
Lim said that DAP must continue to regenerate and renew itself with a clear succession plan.
“The national leadership had led the way with a transition of power of secretary-general to Anthony Loke, who will steer the party towards its future direction.
“We are a youthful party, committed to maintaining a spirit of youthfulness in ideas and ideals, even among our veteran members,” he said.
Lim added that DAP is an inclusive party, offering equal opportunities, including for women.
He further summarised five aspirations of Penangites, namely, economic prosperity for all; good quality education and training for children; reliable healthcare system; Penang as an international city that is clean, safe, green and healthy; and a digital future that is affordable, available, and accessible to all.
Lim concluded his speech by explaining the DAP family spirit where the party supports each other in doing the right thing for the country and the people.