DAP unlikely to quit govt before GE16, says Rafizi

Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, co-founder of Bersatu, stated that the Democratic Action Party (DAP) is unlikely to leave the government before the 2016 general election. Rafizi highlighted that DAP holds numerous positions within the government, including ministers, deputy ministers, state executive councillors, elected representatives, and local councillors, making it challenging for the party to withdraw despite internal disagreements.

He emphasized that DAP's involvement extends to thousands of roles, making it unrealistic to expect its members to simply vote to leave the administration based on political principles. Rafizi dismissed claims that DAP's special congress could lead to the collapse of the Pakatan Harapan-led government, asserting that the party would remain in government until the next election, even as it debates its position within the coalition.

The DAP's special congress resulted in an overwhelming 88% vote in favor of remaining in the Unity Government, with 1,857 votes supporting the decision and 242 opposing it. Rafizi criticized DAP for being tied to a racial politics narrative, arguing that the party must move beyond it and present a forward-looking alternative. He urged the party to convince Malaysians of all races that race should not be considered a threat and to prioritize competent and clean leadership.

Rafizi suggested that DAP's ongoing focus on defending non-Malay interests might inadvertently strengthen race-based politics, reinforcing an "us versus them" narrative. He contended that DAP's response to the growing influence of Umno and Pas should not deepen communal divisions but instead demonstrate that capable and trustworthy leadership can serve Malaysians regardless of race.

Rafizi concluded that DAP's direction following its special congress would significantly influence whether Malaysia's political discourse remains focused on race and religion or shifts towards addressing structural issues.