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DAP leaders and members must comply with any resolution adopted at the party’s special congress on 12 July, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said, describing the meeting as a decisive internal referendum on the party’s future role in government.
Chow said the announcement of the congress had created space for delegates to reflect grassroots sentiment and ensure that the outcome genuinely represents the majority view within the party and among its broader support base.
"I believe that, after the announcement regarding this matter was made, it gives room for delegates to bring the voices of members and supporters, including the views of non-member supporters, through party channels, so that the decision made truly reflects the will of the majority.
"As stated by the Secretary-General (Anthony Loke), this meeting is an internal party referendum, and it is very important," he said when met by reporters at a Chinese New Year open house for the Padang Kota state constituency.
The special congress was earlier announced by party secretary-general Anthony Loke, who said delegates would determine whether party office-bearers should relinquish all positions held within the federal administration.
Loke has also made clear that the party’s 40 Members of Parliament will continue backing the government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim until the end of the current parliamentary term.
Chow stressed that the debate centres on the party’s participation in government rather than its continued support for the ruling coalition.
"DAP is not withdrawing support from the MADANI Government. The issue being discussed concerns DAP’s role in the government, specifically whether to continue holding ministerial posts and certain positions, not a question of leaving the government," he said.
He added that in coalition administrations comprising multiple component parties, it is normal and consistent with democratic practice to review and deliberate upon each party’s role within the governing structure. - February 22, 2026