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Former DAP leader Ong Kian Ming has issued a public call for the Democratic Action Party (DAP) to demand that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim remove UMNO from the federal cabinet by next Wednesday. Ong stated that if the party fails to secure this outcome, it risks losing its political credibility.
The call follows the Pardons Board’s decision on September 18 to grant former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak house arrest, subject to a 50 million ringgit fine. UMNO has since initiated a public fundraising campaign to cover the fine on behalf of the former leader. UMNO currently holds seven ministerial positions within the unity government.
In his assessment, published ahead of the DAP Central Executive Committee meeting, Ong argued that the party should move beyond expressing dissatisfaction and instead set a firm deadline for the Prime Minister. He suggested that DAP should threaten to withdraw its support if UMNO is not removed from the cabinet before the next scheduled cabinet meeting.
Ong noted that while the removal of UMNO’s 30 parliamentary seats would weaken the government, the ruling coalition would maintain a slim majority in the Dewan Rakyat, potentially allowing for the passage of the 2027 Budget. However, he acknowledged that a total withdrawal of support by DAP’s 40 members, combined with a potential exit by UMNO, could lead to the dissolution of parliament and an unscheduled general election.
The former DAP lawmaker also referenced a previous statement by cabinet minister Nga Kor Ming, who had pledged to resign if Barisan Nasional achieved a significant victory in the Johor state election and if Najib were released. With both conditions met, Ong highlighted the expectation for accountability regarding the party’s stance on the 1MDB scandal.
Ong further questioned whether UMNO’s continued support for Najib might impact its future electoral prospects, particularly regarding potential alliances with Perikatan Nasional and PAS. The DAP leadership is expected to issue an official response following its internal deliberations.
Article and image source: therakyatpost.com
