DAP Conference to Decide Unity Government Position via Secret Ballot

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 15 — The future of the Democratic Action Party’s (DAP) position within the federal administration will come into sharp focus tomorrow as the 2026 DAP Party Conference gets underway at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC).

DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke is set to table a pivotal motion that will determine whether the party remains in, or withdraws from, the Unity Government through the remainder of the current parliamentary term.

A total of 4,264 delegates representing 1,704 eligible branches nationwide bear the responsibility of deciding the party’s political direction through a secret ballot vote following the conclusion of debate sessions.

Departing from the party’s traditional practice of voting by voice or a show of hands, DAP has instituted secret balloting for the resolution to ensure complete transparency and showcase its democratic maturity.

The voting process, expected to take approximately two hours, will not only resolve DAP’s status in the ruling coalition but also serve as a major indicator of its preparedness to navigate the upcoming general election. The gathering carries added significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of DAP’s founding.

Differing perspectives have emerged among state-level DAP leaders ahead of the high-stakes vote. Johor DAP Chairman Teo Nie Ching and Central Executive Committee member and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow have both taken an open approach, refraining from declaring official positions and granting state delegates full freedom to vote according to their individual judgment.

In contrast, Perak DAP decided unanimously last Wednesday to remain in the Unity Government, emphasizing the need to honor the people’s mandate and maintain momentum on the national reform agenda.

The conference is scheduled to begin at 10 am with a welcoming address by DAP National Chairman Gobind Singh Deo, followed by Loke’s policy speech and the presentation of the Central Executive Committee report.

–NMT