KUALA LUMPUR – DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng has refuted speculation that he will withdraw from the party’s central executive committee (CEC) election set to take place tomorrow.
In a Mandarin-language Facebook post, Lim described news reports suggesting his withdrawal as “unverified and false.”
“However, Guan Eng will not withdraw his candidacy. My fate will be decided by the DAP members,” he stated.
“Thank you for your concern, comrades. See you at the conference!”
His remarks come in response to reports in Chinese-language media citing unnamed sources who claimed he might announce his withdrawal during the party’s national convention at the Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) in Shah Alam.
Lim, who is also the MP for Bagan and assemblyman for Air Putih, has faced increasing pressure in recent weeks to step aside as chairman in favour of new leadership.
On Thursday, five Penang-based party delegates, led by veteran member Datuk AR Krishnan, reportedly urged Lim to withdraw from the contest, alleging that the party was veering towards a “one-man” rule.
Former Klang MP Charles Santiago has also called for Lim to relinquish his leadership role, arguing that the party needs fresh leadership.
According to Sinar Harian, Santiago claimed that Lim’s actions have, at times, overshadowed those of the party’s secretary-general, leading to discontent among grassroots members and various factions who believe a leadership change is necessary.
On 24 February, Scoop reported that party insiders were divided on whether Lim should continue as chairman, with grassroots sentiment leaning towards his removal.
Internal critics blame Lim for recent strategic missteps, including the decision to cede the Dusun Tua state seat in Selangor to Umno during the 2023 state elections, as well as reported tensions between him and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Meanwhile, Bukit Kepayang assemblyman Nicole Tan today became the fifth candidate to withdraw from the CEC election.
Tan, who also serves as Negeri Sembilan’s tourism, arts, and culture committee chairman, said her decision was in response to DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook’s call to prioritise the party’s interests over personal ambition.
“This is also to show support for his leadership and the party’s future direction.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to those who nominated me,” Sinar Harian quoted her as saying in a brief statement.
Earlier today, Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, former Bagan Jermal assemblyman Soon Lip Chee, along with ordinary members K Kalidas and PR Kaliyappan, withdrew from the election, citing their support for the party’s “3G” (third-generation) leadership under Loke. – March 15, 2025