Former DAP Socialist Youth chief Teng Chang Khim has rejected an offer by the wing's top leadership for the post of deputy chairperson.

Teng, who is Bandar Klang state assembly representative, said today he declined the position as it was against the principles of democracy despite seeking re-election in last Saturdays's polls to ensure continuity in the wing's leadership.

But the results of the elections, he added, indicated that the delegates wanted a younger leader and someone endorsed by the top leadership. Teng turns 40 this year, the age limit for Dapsy members.

"I respect the decision of the delegates and the new national executive council (NEC) of Dapsy was elected based on the spirit of democracy. We need to be consistent before and after the elections," he told malaysiakini when contacted.

"I would like to continue serving in Dapsy but I cannot allow my personal wish to over-ride these principles. This is my message to the top leadership," added the former Youth leader, who is a noted critic of the party's top leadership.

The lawyer-cum-politician created a controversy when he requested DAP national chairperson Lim Kit Siang not to seek re-election at the party's polls in 2001.