DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke’s accusation that MCA lacks dignity warrants rebuke, given that his own party has conceded traditional seats to Bersatu, a former political adversary, under the guise of “political strategy”, while expecting its members to accept the decision without question.
DAP once vehemently criticised Bersatu, branding it as traitors, yet has now changed its position for political convenience. Having made such a dramatic political U-turn, on what grounds does Loke presume to lecture MCA on dignity?
In contrast with DAP, when MCA upholds Barisan’s coalition spirit of consultation, we are accused of lacking dignity. Does Loke alone get to decide what dignity means?
MCA also rejects Loke’s attempt to ridicule our MCA candidates over the oath-taking ceremony. This was neither exclusive to MCA nor a pledge made to the Umno president. All Barisan candidates, including those from Umno, MCA and MIC, took an oath before Barisan Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Presenting this as a special requirement imposed on MCA is misleading and distorts the facts.
As DAP secretary-general, Loke owes the public an accurate account rather than selectively presenting facts to discredit MCA.
MCA has openly voiced its dissatisfaction over Barisan’s seat-allocation dispute because we stand by the principle of equal consultation among coalition partners. Unlike DAP, we will not remain silent when this principle is at stake.
Dignity is not about mocking others; it is about having the courage to uphold one's principles. Instead of ridiculing MCA, Loke ought to explain to DAP members why a party once condemned as an enemy has now become an acceptable recipient of its traditional seats.
DATUK TAN TEIK CHENG
MCA vice-president
