Remember our ideals, Loke tells DAP delegates ahead of much-awaited decision

DAP's decision on whether it will remain part of the federal administration should take into consideration that the party's objectives extend beyond holding government positions, said its secretary-general Anthony Loke.

Speaking at the DAP National Conference 2026 at Putrajaya International Convention Centre today, Loke affirmed that while the decision put before delegates is a "difficult" one, party members should remain steadfast to its founding ideals.

"Our objectives are not merely to sit in the government as ministers, deputy ministers, or hold other important posts.

"What matters more is our fight and our role in helping contribute to building a better nation," said Loke, who is also the transport minister.

In his speech before tabling a motion on the much-awaited decision, Loke did not make any specific appeals for delegates to vote for DAP's continued presence in Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's government.

However, he mentioned that as a party in the coalition government, there are "restrictions and weaknesses" that DAP has had to bear, with the impacts of such issues contributing to "criticisms" and even "protest votes" against the party during recent state polls.

The motion, which calls for the conference to resolve whether DAP should remain in the federal government until the end of the current parliamentary term, was seconded by Perak DAP chairperson Nga Kor Ming before the floor was opened for debates.

Success and weaknesses

Earlier, DAP national chairperson Gobind Singh Deo acknowledged that DAP must now "weigh" successes and weaknesses that it has observed throughout its time in the unity government.

Gobind, who is also the digital minister, reiterated that being part of a coalition government means that the election manifestos put forth by the respective parties have had to be "reviewed" so that an agreement amenable to all quarters can be reached to ensure developments.

Hinting that reform measures thus far have been perceived as inadequate, Gobind said he has received various complaints calling for more to be done for the people's welfare, including economic issues.

This, he added, is despite the government having initiated measures to address challenges faced by the people.

Around 4,000 delegates will cast their ballots in a secret vote process before the polling results are publicly announced.

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