Open warfare in Malaysia’s DAP at crucial party polls, with Lim political dynasty at stake

The Rise and Fall of Pakatan Harapan and DAP’s Growing Pains

Malaysian politics has been in a state of flux since the historic 2018 general election, which saw the Democratic Action Party (DAP), as part of the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, oust the long-standing ruling alliance led by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). This dramatic shift in power marked a new era for the country, but it also set the stage for internal tensions within the DAP and broader political instability. The rise of the Lim family within the party, particularly Lim Guan Eng, has been a focal point of these tensions. Young politicians aligned with the family were given key ministerial positions, which ruffled feathers within the party and outside. The PH government, led by Mahathir Mohamad, lasted only 22 months before collapsing due to deep divisions, especially between DAP and the Malay-based parties in the coalition. This collapse led to a period of political instability that persisted until the 2022 general elections.

The 2022 polls brought a degree of stability when Anwar Ibrahim became prime minister, forming a unity government that included four other political coalitions. However, within the DAP, an uneasy calm prevails. Despite performing well in the elections, winning 40 out of 55 contested parliamentary seats, the party is grappling with internal dissatisfaction. Allegations of favoritism have deepened, particularly after several veteran MPs were dropped from the election lineup in favor of relatively new faces seen as aligned with the Lim family. This generational shift has raised questions about the party’s direction and its ability to maintain public support, especially among its core constituency of ethnic non-Malays, particularly the Chinese community.

Allegations of Favoritism and Internal Discord

The DAP’s internal struggles have been exacerbated by allegations of favoritism, with many within the party questioning the leadership’s decision to sideline veteran politicians. One notable casualty was Charles Santiago, a long-time DAP member and former MP for Klang, who was dropped from the election lineup. Santiago, now the chairman of the National Water Services Commission, is among several veterans who feel sidelined as the party shifts toward a younger generation of leaders. This generational shift has sparked concerns about whether the party can maintain its traditional support base, which has historically been drawn to its vocal stance on issues like corruption and education.

Phoon Wing Keong, a researcher at the Centre for Malaysian Chinese Studies, has noted that the DAP’s reliance on ethnic non-Malays, particularly the Chinese community, may be tested as senior leaders step down and a new generation takes control. “With no senior leaders remaining, can Loke’s leadership gain the confidence of the party?” Phoon wondered. Loke Siew Fook, who replaced Lim Guan Eng as DAP secretary-general in March 2022, is seen as less confrontational and has cultivated more cordial relationships with coalition leaders in the Anwar government. However, his leadership style has also drawn criticism from some within the party, who feel that the DAP has become less outspoken and more subservient in its role within the government.

Undercurrents of Dissatisfaction and Factions

Beneath the surface of the DAP’s electoral success, there are undercurrents of dissatisfaction and factionalism. The party, which prides itself on its multi-racial outlook but has a predominantly Chinese membership, has long been a vocal advocate for issues like anti-corruption reforms and education. However, under Loke’s leadership, the DAP has adopted a more muted approach, which has frustrated some of its hardcore supporters. Urban voters and professionals, who have historically formed the backbone of the party’s support, are beginning to notice this shift and are questioning whether the DAP is still the bold and principled party it once was.

Factions within the party aligned with the Lim family argue that Lim Guan Eng should play a more prominent role, as he remains one of the few DAP leaders willing to speak out on contentious issues. These include the controversial decision by the Attorney General to drop corruption charges against UMNO politicians, some of whom now hold positions in the government. This move has raised eyebrows and fueled concerns about the integrity of the current administration. For DAP loyalists, the absence of a strong, vocal leader like Lim Guan Eng is deeply felt, and many wonder if the party’s compromise on its principles is a necessary evil for political stability or a betrayal of its core values.

The Road Ahead for DAP and Its Leadership

As the DAP navigates this challenging period, the question of whether Loke’s leadership can restore confidence both within the party and among its supporters remains unanswered. The party’s traditional strength has always been its ability to speak truth to power and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. However, its current stance has led to accusations that it is no longer the fearless champion of justice and equality it once was. For the DAP to regain its footing, it must find a balance between its role in the unity government and its commitment to its core principles.

The generational shift within the party also presents an opportunity for renewal and innovation. Younger leaders, many of whom are aligned with the Lim family, bring fresh perspectives and energy to the table. However, they must also learn to navigate the complexities of coalition politics and maintain the trust of the party’s loyal supporters. The road ahead for the DAP is fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth and reinvention. Whether the party can rise to these challenges and emerge stronger will depend on its ability to address its internal divisions and reclaim its voice as a champion of justice and equality.