Lee had space to speak, but did not use it, says PKR deputy sec-gen

KUALA LUMPUR: Despite having the chance to speak within the PKR party, former MP Lee Chean Chung did not attend most central leadership council meetings since November, according to PKR deputy secretary-general Bryan Ng. The MPP is a key forum for party discussions on national issues, government policies, and current affairs, attended by party leaders, ministers, and deputy ministers.

Ng clarified that Lee, elected to the MPP, later resigned from the leadership council. Ng disputed Lee's assertion that he could not raise issues affecting Petaling Jaya, pointing out that Lee was invited to various meetings by the Petaling Jaya City Council and the state on flood mitigation and the Petaling Jaya Local Plan, but consistently declined.

Ng urged Lee to ask questions, debate, and propose better solutions if he had concerns. The deputy secretary-general also noted Lee's decision to remain with PKR while participating in events organized by Parti Bersama Malaysia, emphasizing that disciplinary action against members supporting political opponents is not uncommon. Lee's resignation as Petaling Jaya MP became effective after meeting with the Dewan Rakyat Speaker on September 30.

Lee claimed his suspension from PKR, effective immediately, was due to his vocal stance on public issues, leaving him unable to voice his opinions within the party. Ng emphasized that effective MPs should attend meetings, actively work with agencies, and follow up on issues until solutions are reached, rather than merely issuing statements. He wished Lee well in his future endeavors.