Three out of nine axed DAP reps to retire from politics
GEORGE TOWN: Three out of the nine DAP leaders who made way for new candidates in the run up to the 14th General Election (GE14) have expressed their desire to retire after close to three decades in politics.
State DAP chairperson Chow Kon Yeow said that technically only six incumbents were not re-nominated in the highly guarded selection process.
Chow is believed to have been referring to the three old guards – Lim Hock Seng, Danny Law Heng Kiang and A. Tanasekharan – who were said to have willingly stepped aside.
At the event to formally introduce the candidates for Penang DAP, all the excluded leaders were present except for Tanasekharan, who had personal matters to attend to.
Lim confirmed his desire to resign, while Law told journalists that he plans to make an announcement about his exit to his supporters on Tuesday.
Jeff Ooi was gracious in accepting his political fate, saying he plans to offer his support to RSN Rayer, to ensure that DAP retains the seat.
Ng Wei Aik's fall from grace was sudden as he used to be the political secretary to caretaker Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, and was promoted to contest the Tanjong parliament seat in 2013 as reward for his hard work.
When asked about possible sabotage, Chow replied that the party did its best to appease all quarters, but at times its members must sacrifice for the greater good.
"Change is imminent. It comes to all at various times in their lives. We must cope with it," said Chow.
Chow would be taking Ng's spot in the Tanjong parliament seat and is also defending his Padang Kota state seat.
Earlier, Lim had reiterated that the succession plan for DAP in Penang involves anointing Chow as the future chief minister, especially if Lim is unable to hold the post.
"But let's not talk about positions for now. Let us talk about the elections and winning it first," said Lim.
Chow was later asked if Lim's sister Lim Hui Ling, the state DAP secretary was considered for the Tanjong parliament seat. He replied that she had turned down an opportunity to contest as she would be the party's Penang campaign director.
"She is actively involved in the planning and logistics. For which, we are grateful for her sacrifices and dedication," added Chow.