For the first time in party history, DAP delegates have proposed a resolution to limit party posts to three terms, or nine years, and this will be tabled at the party's annual national congress this weekend.

DAP Youth chief Teng Chang Khim, told malaysiakini today that some branches proposed the resolution in light of the current scenario in this country where party top posts are held up to 10 terms.

Umno's Dr Mahathir Mohamad and MIC's Samy Vellu have been at the helm of their respective parties for 20 years, whereas Dr Ling Liong Sik has been the MCA president for 15 years.

Meanwhile, DAP's very own national chairperson Lim Kit Siang had held the post of secretary-general - considered the most powerful position in the party - for 30 years. He assumed his current post as chairman after the 1999 general elections.

Recently, Teng caused an uproar in the party when he publicly urged Lim to relinquish his post and pave the way for younger leaders. The veteran politician was also told not to accept any nominations this year.

Instrumental episode

Teng did not deny that this episode could have been instrumental in motivating the resolution to impose term limits on party posts.

"However, I do not know if my call made an impact on Lim. The fact that he did not decline nominations this year shows that he wants to prove that he cannot be defeated and will be returned with high votes, like always," said Teng, who is also Bandar Klang assembly representative.

Teng also pointed out that the party's life advisor Dr Chen Man Hin's decision not to contest in any party post was a significant development.

Several DAP leaders criticised Teng for trying to spilt the party while others backed his right to express his personal view.

Following this, the party's central committee imposed a gag order on the matter, and warned Teng not to repeat his call or he would face disciplinary action.

Teng said this time around the spotlight would be on him. His victory or defeat would show whether DAP is prepared for changes, he warned.

"The stereotype image of the party is that anyone who opposes the leadership or Lim will be ostracised or pressured to leave the party.

"My victory will break the myth or the stereotype perception that DAP is not ready for changes," said Teng, who added that if he was to lose "it would not come as a surprise".

'Blind loyalty'

Teng also criticised the "blind loyalty" to party leaders claiming that this hindered attempts to reform the party.

"I am not lobbying. I have not done this in the past two elections. I am leaving it to the delegates to decide the fate of party leaders," he said.

Teng is among 38 nominees vying for the central committee posts this year.

Party elections are held every three years with delegates at the congress having the right to select 20 of the 38 candidates as CC members.

The new committee will then elect key office bearers in a meeting after the congress. The new team may appoint up to 10 additional committee members.

The two-day congress will be held in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 18 and 19.