As DAP prepares for its central executive committee elections, party insiders reveal growing discontent over chairman Lim Guan Eng’s leadership. — Scoop file pic, February 24, 2025
Lim Guan Eng faces party rebellion as grassroots call for his ouster
Party insiders say growing dissent over Lim’s leadership, with critics blaming him for internal strife and strategic missteps
R. Dineskumar
Updated 7 hours ago
24 February, 2025
8:00 AM MYT
KUALA LUMPUR — DAP members are divided over whether they should retain Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng as party chairman, with sentiments on the ground leaning towards his removal, according to party insiders.
A Selangor DAP grassroots leader revealed that while some members support Lim, “several factions” within the state chapter are critical of both him and the party leadership.
The leader, who requested anonymity, said dissatisfaction with Lim stemmed from the party’s decision to surrender the Malay-majority Dusun Tua seat—won in 2018 by Edry Faizal Eddy Yusof—to UMNO in the 2023 state elections.
The source claimed this move was partly orchestrated by Lim in his capacity as chairman.
“The decision upset party members, especially in the Kajang, Bangi, and Hulu Langat divisions. I believe it was a factor in members partially punishing Gobind Singh in the Selangor DAP elections because of this seat surrender,” the source told Scoop, adding that resentment towards Lim remains strong.
‘Tensions in Penang DAP’
The grassroots leader also cited tensions within Penang DAP, particularly the purported feud between Lim and his handpicked successor, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Many Selangor members perceive Lim as attempting to “undermine Chow’s administration”.
Lim has publicly criticised Chow’s government on multiple fronts, including land deals involving the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), a sharp decline in state reserves, and water supply issues.
The individual further highlighted a recent controversy in which Penang DAP chief Steven Sim was heckled at a party event by Tan Khong Chong, an aide to Lim. The incident has reportedly irked Selangor members as well.
“Members were unhappy because they knew the man was Guan Eng’s associate. It’s disheartening to see the party in this state, especially when it remains a preferred choice compared to other parties,” the individual added.
The individual warned that the alleged infighting within Penang DAP could have serious consequences, comparing it to the internal disputes that led to Gerakan’s downfall in Penang after nearly four decades in power.
Another party insider from Selangor echoed these concerns, attributing Lim’s perceived behaviour to “arrogance” and arguing that no leader should attempt to undermine their successor.
Reports in recent years suggest that Penang DAP is split between factions loyal to Lim and those backing Chow. This divide was evident in the 2023 state elections, where allegations surfaced that Chow’s preferred candidates were sidelined in favour of Lim’s loyalists.
According to the insider, Lim’s supporters fear for their future in the party, worrying that if he loses power, they could be ousted as well. Additionally, the growing dissent in Selangor stems from the perception that Lim lacks the leadership qualities needed to take DAP to the next stage.
“They see him as a stumbling block because he keeps throwing spanners in the works for the party’s own leaders. He was secretary-general for almost 15 years, chairman for the last term, and could potentially continue for another.
“He has been managing the party for 20 years—it’s time to pass the baton,” said the insider.
The insider also noted that many Indian members remain discontented over the party’s handling of former Perai assemblyman and Penang Deputy Chief Minister P. Ramasamy.
They claimed Ramasamy’s removal led to backlash from Indian voters in the 2023 Penang state elections, with low voter turnout recorded.
‘Mixed reactions to Lim’s leadership’
However, Batu Kawan DAP Youth chief Liinesh Selluandan downplayed the mixed views on Lim, saying such differences were natural in any political party. He acknowledged that many members appreciate Lim’s leadership, dedication, and long-standing contributions to both the party and the country.
“At the same time, discussions on renewal and succession planning are always ongoing. DAP has many talented young leaders who are ready to serve and lead, but opportunities for leadership are limited.
“It is important to ensure the right individuals have space to contribute effectively,” he told Scoop when contacted.
Liinesh, who also serves as DAP Youth vice-chairman, stressed that the party remains committed to democratic and consultative decision-making.
“What matters most is ensuring that DAP remains strong, relevant, and continues to champion the people’s interests. The party’s internal ‘metabolism process’ is crucial for maintaining its relevance in the political landscape,” he added.
The comments from party insiders come as DAP gears up for its central executive committee (CEC) elections on March 16.
At the time of writing, former Sungai Puyu assemblyman Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh, party advisor Tan Kok Wai, party treasurer Fong Kui Lun, and vice-chairman M. Kula Segaran have announced their withdrawal from the elections, citing the need for fresh leadership.
However, Chow has confirmed his candidacy. — February 24, 2025
Lim Guan Eng faces party rebellion as grassroots call for his ouster
Party insiders say growing dissent over Lim’s leadership, with critics blaming him for internal strife and strategic missteps
R. Dineskumar
Updated 7 hours ago
24 February, 2025
8:00 AM MYT
KUALA LUMPUR — DAP members are divided over whether they should retain Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng as party chairman, with sentiments on the ground leaning towards his removal, according to party insiders.
A Selangor DAP grassroots leader revealed that while some members support Lim, “several factions” within the state chapter are critical of both him and the party leadership.
The leader, who requested anonymity, said dissatisfaction with Lim stemmed from the party’s decision to surrender the Malay-majority Dusun Tua seat—won in 2018 by Edry Faizal Eddy Yusof—to UMNO in the 2023 state elections.
The source claimed this move was partly orchestrated by Lim in his capacity as chairman.
“The decision upset party members, especially in the Kajang, Bangi, and Hulu Langat divisions. I believe it was a factor in members partially punishing Gobind Singh in the Selangor DAP elections because of this seat surrender,” the source told Scoop, adding that resentment towards Lim remains strong.
‘Tensions in Penang DAP’
The grassroots leader also cited tensions within Penang DAP, particularly the purported feud between Lim and his handpicked successor, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. Many Selangor members perceive Lim as attempting to “undermine Chow’s administration”.
Lim has publicly criticised Chow’s government on multiple fronts, including land deals involving the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), a sharp decline in state reserves, and water supply issues.
The individual further highlighted a recent controversy in which Penang DAP chief Steven Sim was heckled at a party event by Tan Khong Chong, an aide to Lim. The incident has reportedly irked Selangor members as well.
“Members were unhappy because they knew the man was Guan Eng’s associate. It’s disheartening to see the party in this state, especially when it remains a preferred choice compared to other parties,” the individual added.
The individual warned that the alleged infighting within Penang DAP could have serious consequences, comparing it to the internal disputes that led to Gerakan’s downfall in Penang after nearly four decades in power.
Another party insider from Selangor echoed these concerns, attributing Lim’s perceived behaviour to “arrogance” and arguing that no leader should attempt to undermine their successor.
Reports in recent years suggest that Penang DAP is split between factions loyal to Lim and those backing Chow. This divide was evident in the 2023 state elections, where allegations surfaced that Chow’s preferred candidates were sidelined in favour of Lim’s loyalists.
According to the insider, Lim’s supporters fear for their future in the party, worrying that if he loses power, they could be ousted as well. Additionally, the growing dissent in Selangor stems from the perception that Lim lacks the leadership qualities needed to take DAP to the next stage.
“They see him as a stumbling block because he keeps throwing spanners in the works for the party’s own leaders. He was secretary-general for almost 15 years, chairman for the last term, and could potentially continue for another.
“He has been managing the party for 20 years—it’s time to pass the baton,” said the insider.
The insider also noted that many Indian members remain discontented over the party’s handling of former Perai assemblyman and Penang Deputy Chief Minister P. Ramasamy.
They claimed Ramasamy’s removal led to backlash from Indian voters in the 2023 Penang state elections, with low voter turnout recorded.
‘Mixed reactions to Lim’s leadership’
However, Batu Kawan DAP Youth chief Liinesh Selluandan downplayed the mixed views on Lim, saying such differences were natural in any political party. He acknowledged that many members appreciate Lim’s leadership, dedication, and long-standing contributions to both the party and the country.
“At the same time, discussions on renewal and succession planning are always ongoing. DAP has many talented young leaders who are ready to serve and lead, but opportunities for leadership are limited.
“It is important to ensure the right individuals have space to contribute effectively,” he told Scoop when contacted.
Liinesh, who also serves as DAP Youth vice-chairman, stressed that the party remains committed to democratic and consultative decision-making.
“What matters most is ensuring that DAP remains strong, relevant, and continues to champion the people’s interests. The party’s internal ‘metabolism process’ is crucial for maintaining its relevance in the political landscape,” he added.
The comments from party insiders come as DAP gears up for its central executive committee (CEC) elections on March 16.
At the time of writing, former Sungai Puyu assemblyman Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh, party advisor Tan Kok Wai, party treasurer Fong Kui Lun, and vice-chairman M. Kula Segaran have announced their withdrawal from the elections, citing the need for fresh leadership.
However, Chow has confirmed his candidacy. — February 24, 2025
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