DAP CHAIRMAN Gobind Singh should stop offering excuses that it would be impossible to abolish the dreaded draconian Sedition Act 1948 without a consensus among Madani government parties.
This is given DAP had never mentioned anything to such extent when it was in the opposition, notably the need for consensus among the coalition partners before the act could be abolished.
Abolishing the undemocratic legislation was part of the larger agenda of reforms of the PH-led coalition before it came to power.
DAP leaders obtained the support of masses on the grounds that the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-led coalition would implement the various reforms that were needed.
The rise of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was synonymous with the need for reforms. Regrettably, the PH-led coalition seems to have taken a back seat to reforms.
Anwar has been giving excuses one after another as to why reforms are not forthcoming.
DAP with 40 parliamentary seats is not the same vigorous party as before. Power, positions and perks have gone to the head of its leaders.
What is unfortunate is that some DAP leaders like Gobind is giving excuses as to why reforms are not there especially the long-awaited eradication of the Sedition Act 1948.
Despite the promise of the non-use of the act, more and more people are detained under the legislation.
The three Rs (race, religion and royalty) are cited as to the need and relevance of the draconian legislation.
The argument that there is need for consensus among the ruling coalition partners before the legislation could be eradicated is more an excuse than an acceptable reason.
The DAP leaders like Gobind should admit the sad truth that the party lacks the courage and vision to bring an end to the act that remains a curse on Malaysians. —Apr 26, 2026
Former DAP stalwart and Penang deputy chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image credit: Bernama
