'The DAP I knew once no longer exist' says Ramasamy

PERAI - Former Penang deputy chief minister P Ramasamy who had raised eyebrows with his resignation from DAP earlier today, expressed concerns over shifts in values and approach within the party over the past 18 years.

Speaking to reporters in a press conference held at Taman Chai Leng, here, Ramasamy said there is a decrease in the party's acceptance of dissent and openness.

Staing the DAP he once knew is not there anymore, he said: "Those who voice out against the government are looked upon as troublemakers and mischief makers.

He recounted an incident a few months ago when he raised concerns over under representation of Chinese and Indians in the country's civil service.

"But the party leadership distanced themselves from my statement.

"In fact, my statememnt was considered harmful of the newly formed unity government," he said.

The three-term Perai assemblyman said his decision was driven by a desire to pursue a more independent political path in the future.

"I might be called a sour grapes for quitting the party but I have no choice but to take a firm decision to chart my political course in the future.

Despite his departure from DAP, Ramasamy voiced his commitment to advocate for the rights of all Malaysians, regardless of their backgrounds.

He pledged to continue in his efforts, a struggle he has been involved in since the 1980s and to continue supporting the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Penang caretaker chief minister Chow Kon Yeow.

"By resigning from DAP, I hope to function in the larger political environment without constraints of being a member of a political party or organisation," he said.

"I will continue to fight and struggle against injustice, discrimination and oppression against all Malaysians irrespective of their race or religion.