Will Kit Siang's retirement have an impact on Guan Eng? Experts say yes

SHAH ALAM: After taking a beating at Melaka and Johor polls, DAP seems to revive itself with fresh faces after party veteran Lim Kit Siang announced his retirement yesterday.

But will the move have an impact on his son, Guan Eng?

Political analyst Dr Azmi Hassan said the announcement came as a surprise as the 81-year old is still active in politics.

"It seems like a sudden decision as he is still active," said Azmi who is a senior fellow at the Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research.

He said the move shows Kit Siang is hoping to give the party "a fresh face" for GE15, and will have a positive impact on the party.

But Azmi feels it may have an impact on his son, Guan Eng who may only be at the Central Executive Committee (CEC).

Due to that, he said it may see the rise of younger candidates such as the DAP national organising committee and Seremban MP Anthony Loke.

"Not that Loke is going against Kit Siang and Guan Eng, but certain groups may take advantage of this situation." Azmi told to Sinar Daily.

Socio-political analyst Dr Awang Azman Pawi of Universiti Malaya said his retirement shows the end of a political legacy where Kit Siang served more than 50 years in the country's political arena.

The move may see Guan Eng being positioned at the highest position in CEC, he said.

"Kit Siang's retirement will give an opportunity for young DAP leaders to take move up the ladder, and this will ensure the DAP delegation has more vibrant and potential faces," said Awang Azman.