Another candidate drops out of DAP CEC race, backs Loke’s leadership

 

Bukit Kepayang assemblyman Nicole Tan thanked those who nominated her for a seat on DAP’s central executive committee. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Bukit Kepayang assemblyman Nicole Tan became the fifth candidate today to withdraw from DAP’s central executive committee elections, scheduled for tomorrow.

Tan, who is also the Negeri Sembilan tourism, arts and culture committee chairman, said her decision was made in response to DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook’s call to prioritise the party’s interests over personal ambitions.

“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, and ordinary members K Kalidas and PR Kaliyappan said they were withdrawing from the elections to give their full support for the party’s “3G” (third generation) leadership under Loke.

On Feb 19, three leaders – national adviser Tan Kok Wai, national treasurer Fong Kui Lun and party veteran Phee Boon Poh – also withdrew from the CEC elections to “give way to a new generation of leaders”.

Meanwhile, DAP national chairman Lim Guan Eng has dismissed media reports of his withdrawal from the CEC elections as “unverified and false”. He said he would not pull out and would let his future be decided by DAP members instead.

Certain factions within DAP are advocating for Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow to take over as chairman. However, a significant number of members support Lim’s continued leadership, viewing him as a strong personality, and unafraid to stand up to PKR and Umno. - FMT