Penang CM: Loke’s resignation ‘painful’, but shows his principles

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 12 — DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook’s resignation as transport minister was a “painful” decision but reflected his willingness to take responsibility based on principles, said Penang Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Chow Kon Yeow.

Chow said Loke’s decision was not an easy one, especially given the public attention surrounding a court decision involving former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

“I view Anthony Loke’s resignation as a decision that pains us. This is because the reason for his resignation is public knowledge, namely the issue that is still being discussed and has yet to be resolved,” he said after attending PBA Holdings Bhd’s extraordinary general meeting here today.

He was commenting on Loke’s resignation as transport minister with immediate effect on November 10.

Chow, who is also a DAP central committee member, said the decision showed that Loke was not putting his own interests first but was willing to take responsibility to convey an important message to the country.

He said the move also signalled that the country’s interests must be protected to ensure a positive direction for development and uphold the dignity of the people.

“So, the resignation was not an easy choice to make, but after taking those considerations into account, Loke was willing to shoulder the responsibility,” he said.

Asked whether Loke’s expertise could be used to assist Penang DAP or other state governments, Chow said the matter would have to be discussed with those who possessed the relevant expertise.

He said the party was always open to considering various measures to address the political issues and challenges it faced.

Chow said Loke’s resignation had also received the backing of DAP’s central executive committee (CEC), and that any subsequent steps would likewise be discussed by the party leadership.

“I believe that whatever the next steps are, they will be discussed and considered by the CEC so that a wise and sustainable decision can be made,” he said.