GEORGE TOWN — Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that he would merely remain an ordinary party member of DAP if he decided not to contest in the party’s central executive committee (CEC) election on March 16.
Earlier, it was reported that the Padang Kota assemblyman had confirmed his candidacy in the party election, though he did not disclose which position he was eyeing.
Chow, who did not contest in the state party election last September, is currently serving as DAP vice-chairman, a role he has held since 2004.
“I have told (the media) why I am standing (in the CEC elections). If I don’t (contest), I will be an ordinary member.
“I don’t have anymore (positions), even at the branch level,” he told Scoop on the sidelines of an event hosted by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), here.
Chow was asked about his decision to contest when several of his contemporaries have opted out of the race.
On February 19, it was reported that three party veterans—former Sungai Puyu assemblyman Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh, party advisor Tan Kok Wai, and party treasurer Fong Kui Lun—had announced their withdrawal from the party elections.
In a joint statement, Tan and Fong said their decision was to allow a new generation of leaders to take on more prominent leadership roles, reported Free Malaysia Today.
Two days later, party vice-chairman M. Kula Segaran also announced his withdrawal, stating that it was time to step back and let younger leaders take charge as the party rejuvenates itself to meet the nation’s evolving challenges. — February 23, 2025