Penang exco decides Guan Eng can remain CM pending corruption trial (Updated)

GEORGE TOWN: Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has been given a vote of confidence to continue as head of the Penang government by his fellow executive councillors.

Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Rashid Hasnon said there was no need for Lim to resign nor take leave from the post.

"We have full confidence in the leadership of Lim Guan Eng to lead the state government," he said in a press conference today after the Exco meeting.

Lim is facing calls to resign after he was charged with graft and abuse of power last week over the purchase of his house in Jalan Pinhorn here.

He denies any wrongdoing and faces a maximum 20 year jail sentence if convicted for the offences.

Deputy Chief Minister II P. Ramsamy also backed Lim to remain as chief minister, noting the decision for the DAP secretary general to stay was made unanimously during the meeting.

He said the accusations against Lim were politically motivated so there was no need for him to leave the post.

"Pakatan Harapan component parties have also given their views that he (Lim) should stay as chief minister," he added.