ROS must suspend DAP, say ex-party officials

They allege that 753 members were deprived of the right to vote in last year’s CEC election.

PETALING JAYA: Two former leaders-turned-critics of DAP today urged the Registrar of Societies (ROS) to suspend the party’s right to operate as a political organisation pending investigations into the legitimacy of its Central Executive Committee (CEC) election last December.

ROS must fulfil its duty of protecting the interests of DAP members, said Tunku Abdul Aziz Ibrahim, a former vice chairman of the party, and Tan Tuan Tat, a former branch leader in Selangor.

They alleged during a press conference here that 753 delegates were deprived of their right to vote during the December election and were supportive of their call for action from ROS.

They accused DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng of obstructing justice.

“The irregularities alleged at the party’s CEC election are of public interest, but Guan Eng is apparently not extending the necessary cooperation to the authorities,” Tunku Aziz said.

“He is perceived as actively obstructing the course of justice,” he said.

Responding to a reporter who asked whether the 753 delegates had indeed expressed support for their call, Tan said: “Yes, there are a number of members who have approached us, but I shall not mention names or reveal the number of members. Let’s allow the ROS to do his job.”

They said ROS should call for a fresh CEC election.

“DAP on the whole should be suspended pending investigations as the ROS has a duty to protect the interests of the membership as a whole,” said Tunku Aziz.

“I’m not suggesting to suspend DAP forever and not allow them to contest in the upcoming general election.

“Equity and justice should be served. So I just stress that ROS do its job.

“I don’t want DAP excluded. I would want to see what every political party is capable of in providing for the people. But the rule of law must apply.”

Tunku Aziz also said he would not contest in the coming general election.

“I was never a politician and I have no intention to become one,” he said.

“DAP promised to give me a platform to widen my advocacy against corruption and promotion of ethical values both in the government and business sectors. That was the only reason I joined DAP.”