DAP kekal kerajaan demi pengaruh, ‘kos keluar’ lebih tinggi

On Sunday, the DAP voted to remain in a unity government until the end of its term, dispelling speculation about the party's political aims. Analyst Sivamurugan Pandian from Universiti Sains Malaysia said the decision was strategic to maintain the party's influence in Putrajaya as the 16th general election approaches. While being in government gives DAP access to power and influence, it also requires sharing the burden if the government faces weaknesses or failures.

Leaving the government might allow DAP to present itself as a more independent and firm party that upholds its principles, but the risk is greater as the 16th general election nears. According to Pandian, staying in the cabinet eliminates the "glue that sticks to shoes" for DAP as it heads into the election. The decision was made at a party congress at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre after a special motion was presented by DAP Deputy President Loke Siew Fook.

Pandian noted that the decision does not necessarily mean DAP is ignoring its principles; rather, it shows the party is trying to align its principles with the realities of politics. The key question is how much DAP can convince its base that its participation in the government still aligns with their mandate and hopes. The outcome's success or failure will depend not only on the DAP congress but also on the voters in the upcoming election, Pandian added.