Loke: DAP Leaders contesting as Independents are automatically expelled from party

PETALING JAYA: Anthony Loke, the Secretary-General of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), has warned that any DAP leader who contests as an Independent in the upcoming state polls on August 12 will lose their party membership immediately. Loke stated that this rule is clearly stated in the DAP constitution.

Loke made this statement in response to former Penang councillor David Marshel’s resignation from the party and his intention to contest in the state polls as an Independent candidate. Loke acknowledged Marshel’s right as a citizen to participate in any election after resigning from the party.

Marshel is expected to contest in Prai, where DAP plans to field former EcoWorld Development group deputy CEO Datuk Seri S Sundarajoo.

Loke emphasized that party leaders, regardless of their seniority, should be prepared to step back when necessary. He reiterated that DAP has not wavered in its principles, and the present party leaders are dedicated to realizing their vision for Malaysia. He stressed that no leader can indefinitely hold a role in the party, but the DAP will persist in pursuing its political objectives and goals.

Regarding the concerns expressed by Penang DAP deputy chairman P Ramasamy, who questioned if the party has changed since he joined in 2005, Loke stated that parties evolve with the times and Ramasamy is entitled to his opinions.

Loke also highlighted that the state polls are about the future of Penang and not about individual candidates. He acknowledged that changes in candidates could elicit reactions, but the DAP has made its decision and will stand by it.

Loke emphasized the importance of convincing the people of Penang that the DAP, along with Pakatan Harapan and its partners in the unity government, present a vision for the state and will deliver it for the betterment of the people.

Several incumbent DAP leaders, including Ramasamy, Chong Eng, Phee Boon Poh, M Satees, Yeoh Soon Hin, Soon Lip Chee, and Chris Lee, did not make it to the candidates’ list for the Penang state polls.

The DAP recently announced the names of 19 candidates, including seven new faces, who will be fielded in the August 12 state polls in Penang.