GOBIND Singh Deo’s recent defeat in Selangor DAP’s state committee elections has triggered a storm of speculation. For a heavyweight like Gobind – who's not only a DAP veteran but also the Digital Minister – being booted out is no small matter.
DAP supporters, many of whom have long admired Gobind’s fierce spirit, now question whether his silence on key issues in the Unity Government has eroded his standing within his own party.
The silence from DAP’s four ministers – with Gobind among them – on critical issues facing the country has only added fuel to the fire. Rising extremism and intolerance have been evident in recent policy shifts and statements from Unity Government leaders.
Yet, DAP’s ministers have largely remained quiet, leading many to wonder if DAP is compromising on its principles to maintain power. As Gobind’s father, the late Karpal Singh, was known for his unyielding stance against extremism and his integrity, some now view Gobind’s quieter approach as a stark departure. Some have cynically remarked, “Father – Tiger of Jelutong; Son – Pussycat of Damansara.”
Gobind’s exclusion may yet reflect a much broader concern. DAP has been accused of compromising its ideals in favor of political expediency, and this silence on hardline policies seems to be one such compromise. It's not without reason that the party has been slapped with the moniker "MCA 2.0".
The party’s hesitation to speak up on issues like rising racial intolerance and religious conservatism is becoming an alarming trend, fueling a perception that DAP is afraid of alienating its coalition partners, even if it means compromising on its core values.
Another concerning possibility is that Gobind’s exclusion may indicate a reluctance within DAP to support a multiracial leadership approach in Selangor. While DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke called for a diverse representation, specifically referencing the inclusion of a Punjabi, in clear reference to Gobind, the latter did not make the cut.
Ultimately, Gobind’s ouster might signal a deeper issue within DAP itself. If seasoned leaders like him, who once held a firm stance on democratic principles, are being sidelined for not speaking up against the Unity Government's direction, it reflects a troubling trend. Rather than championing accountability and inclusion, DAP appears to be prioritizing compliance over principles. The party may soon face the consequences of this approach, as disillusioned supporters question if DAP is still the party of integrity they once believed in.
Abdul Rahim Md Noor is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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