DAP likely to be ‘flexible’ so as to retain principles

DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook has suggested that the party is considering contesting the next general election independently, rather than as part of Pakatan Harapan (PH). Analyst Wong Chin Huat from Sunway University believes this approach would provide DAP with the flexibility to retain its principles while working with allies like PKR and Amanah.

Wong emphasized the importance of such flexibility ahead of the 16th general election, as it would require allies capable of appealing to voters from diverse backgrounds. At the same time, DAP must address challenges posed by Barisan Nasional (BN) and Bersatu, as well as the possibility of a low voter turnout in a PH-led coalition.

Loe's comment on DAP's readiness to return to the opposition is aimed at reassuring hardcore party members that there are limits to what it would not compromise on. Party's readiness to return to opposition can appeal to MCA and Gerakan's supporters as well, who prioritize principle over power. Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid, an academic from Universiti Sains Malaysia, stated that DAP supporters and grassroots would not be concerned about the party becoming opposition once more.

Fauzi argued that being in opposition would allow elected representatives from DAP to be more vocal about issues affecting the public, particularly the underprivileged, who form the party's base. Fauzi further noted that there seems to be a disparity between the views of DAP leadership and grassroots on the idea of forming a unity government.

DAP leaders now need to address this gap and convince party members of the benefits of being part of a unity government to implement specific policies.