Harapan should include PSM in electoral front: DAP leader

Pakatan Harapan should incorporate Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) in its battle to win the 15th general election (GE15), a DAP leader has said.

According to Penang Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy, this is because ideologically, PSM does not have much difference with Harapan component parties, such as DAP and PKR.

“While PSM is a socialist party, the DAP subscribes to the notion of democratic socialism. In other words, the advancement of socialism through the parliamentary process as opposed to revolutionary socialism.

“While PSM is a ‘class-based’ party that emphasises the emancipation of class exploitation through education, awareness, and agitation, DAP is very much focused on the national question - whether the country’s citizens are treated equally and fairly without being subordinated to ethnic and religious divisions,” Ramasamy said in a statement today.

Although the emphasis taken by both parties is different, both the parties want a society that is egalitarian, fair, and just for all Malaysians, irrespective of their background, he added.

‘PSM can enhance opposition’s image’

As for PKR, the party is also concerned about issues affecting the poorer segments of society, Ramasamy stressed.

“PKR is a multi-racial party that wants a better society for all Malaysians.

“It is not an elitist party like Umno or Bersatu, but a party that has an egalitarian notion of what kind of society is free from corruption and abuse of power.

“Specific differences notwithstanding, all three parties share the common vision of a society where the inequality between classes are reduced, the elimination of racial and ethnic discrimination and the reduction of corruption and the abuse of political power,” said Ramasamy.

He added that this is why PSM should be included in the electoral cooperation with Harapan.

“It is not that PSM has a mass following, but is a principled party that might enhance the image of the opposition in denying votes to BN.”

Last week, the Harapan presidential council said that it is looking to hold talks with PSM on working together in GE15.

This after PSM said that the party was seeking an electoral pact with Harapan for the election.

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