GEORGE TOWN – Penang DAP chief Chow Kon Yeow’s decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming state party elections on September 22 might be attributed to internal factionalism within the Penang DAP, according to political analysts.
Chow, who has been serving as Penang chief minister since 2018, revealed yesterday that he will step down from his party role, which he has held since 1999, to allow for new leadership.
Azmi Hassan from Akademi Nusantara noted that the Penang DAP is currently divided into factions – one aligned with former chief minister Lim Guan Eng and another with Chow himself. These divisions became evident during last year’s state elections, with claims that Chow’s chosen candidates were sidelined in favour of those associated with Lim.
The upcoming Penang DAP elections have sparked speculation, particularly around state DAP Secretary Lim Hui Ying and Assistant Secretary Steven Sim, who are both reported to be contenders for the chief position. Lim Hui Ying, the sister of Guan Eng, is said to be eyeing the chairmanship, a role traditionally linked to the chief ministership.
“Hui Ying (is said to be) also eyeing the chairmanship post, and most probably if Chow chooses to defend his post, then he has to face her, whom I would say also wants to be the chief minister since it has been a tradition that whoever is the (Penang) DAP Chairman will become the chief minister,” he told Scoop.
Associate professor Azmil Mohd Tayeb suggested that Chow’s decision, while unfortunate, appears to be the best course of action given the current lack of alignment with his faction.
Conversely, Wong Chin Huat, a professor at Sunway University praised Chow for his rare commitment to term limits, setting a commendable precedent for other political leaders. He indicated that Chow’s decision to step aside could help Penang DAP avoid the infighting that led to Gerakan’s downfall in 2008 when multiple leaders vied for succession.
Wong also touched on the purported rift between Chow and Guan Eng, suggesting that Lim’s followers might use their influence to challenge Chow’s successor, should he remain.
“If the succession plan works out, Penang DAP will have a new leader ready before the next general or state elections and avoid the infighting that caused Gerakan’s wipeout in 2008 when three leaders competed against each other to succeed (Tan Sri) Koh Tsu Koon,” he told Scoop when contacted.
New leadership to ease internal strife
Azmi pointed out that appointing a new Penang DAP chief could help resolve factional tensions within the state chapter, which may have contributed to Pakatan Harapan’s recent loss in the Sg Bakap by-election due to low voter turnout.
“The introduction of a new leader could foster goodwill between the warring factions,” Azmi added.
Following Chow’s announcement, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke assured that Chow would complete his second term as chief minister, in line with Penang’s constitutional limit of two terms. Loke’s assurance aims to prevent an early state election or by-election that could undermine the party.
Wong suggested that Loke’s reassurance prevents the need for an early election or by-election, which would likely be detrimental to the party.
“If Chow’s successor cannot wait for him to complete his term, it could lead to public backlash and a potential defeat for DAP,” Wong said.
“Loke’s assurance signals to all factions within the Penang DAP to support the current administration and focus on preparing for future elections.”
Azmil concurred, noting that Loke’s assurance is vital to avoid accusations of undemocratic practices and ensures that Chow’s departure does not destabilise the party.
No lame duck: Chow’s legacy and future prospects
Wong added that while some may view Chow’s decision as a misstep that could render him a lame-duck Chief Minister, this is unlikely. None of his exco members seems poised to challenge his position effectively, and while Guan Eng is a qualified candidate, any move to replace Chow could provoke a public backlash.
“This is unlikely as none of his (Penang) Exco members appear to have the clout to replace him. While Guan Eng is definitely qualified (for the position), it would likely invite public backlash,” he added. – September 5, 2024