Loke’s decision shows DAP puts politics first, says Umno veteran

An Umno veteran, Othman Desa, has expressed concern that the DAP government is prioritizing politics over their duty to the nation following the resignation of DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook as transport minister. Desa, head of the Umno Veterans group, urged fellow DAP Cabinet members to distinguish between their political beliefs and their public responsibilities.

He warned that Loke's decision to resign in protest of the conditional pardon given to former Prime Minister Najib Razak could be seen as a threat to the government and undermined the unity of the administration. Desa stressed the importance of separating personal feelings from public service, expressing disappointment in what he perceived as DAP leaders' lack of sincerity and commitment to the people.

Notably, Loke claimed his resignation was a "responsible" move aimed at ensuring political stability, stating he would be the sole DAP leader to step down and that accepting the resignation would not compromise the transport ministry's operations.