SHAH ALAM: The proposal to amend the party’s constitution is among the agenda of the 2019 DAP National Conference today to empower the party in future.
DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said it was deemed necessary as the party’s growth was obstructed and almost resulted in having its registration struck off between 2012 and 2017 after the party election and the re-election were disrupted by the Registrar of Societies (ROS).
“(Until) Early last year, we almost see the final days of DAP and we are worried as leaders, how can we face party members.
“In the end, DAP members held their party re-election and succeeded in saving it. In fact, in our moments of being pressured, we succeeded in assisting Pakatan Harapan to gain power (as federal government in the last general election),” he said when speaking at the conference here today.
Also present at the conference opening ceremony were PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim; Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) president Mohamad Sabu and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia secretary-general Datuk Marzuki Yahya.
Apart from that, Lim said among other proposals in the party constitution amendment was to appoint 30 per cent women representatives in DAP’s Central Executive Committee (CEC).
He said the move was the result of party’s confidence in empowering women by involving them in all processes of decision-making.
“At the same time, DAP has 20 per cent women MPs and assemblymen which is the highest among all political parties in Malaysia.
“About 30 per cent of DAP MPs are below 40 years old while 40 per cent of DAP assemblymen are below 40 years old. DAP is determined to see more young leaders at every level of leadership to ensure the party stay fresh with new ideas,” he said.
He said at the same time, with the proposal to amend the party’s constitution, the total number of CEC members will be increased from 30 at the moment to 40 including appointed members.
He said with the addition, the New DAP should continue to build the capacity of its leadership which is effective and is known collectively as a party synonymous with integrity, boldness, idealism and ideas.
Lim added that even though many among DAP’s elected representatives now hold posts at federal and state levels, they are reminded to carry out their responsibilities well.
“Do not assume the posts as our rights. Consider them as a duty and trust we should carry our conscientiously.
“As the secretary-general, I would not hesitate to act against any leaders who did not carry out their duties as required of them,” he said. – Bernama
