Loke's resignation a major loss for DAP and unity government, says analyst
He is a high-performing senior leader.
SHAH ALAM - Anthony Loke's resignation as Transport Minister is a major loss for DAP and the Unity Government, given that he is a high-performing senior leader.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) political analyst Associate Professor Dr Syahruddin Awang Ahmad said this was evident from the numerous reforms implemented by the Seremban Member of Parliament throughout his tenure.
“During his service, he successfully implemented various reforms in the public transport sector, the Road Transport Department's digitalisation policy and improvements to the country's logistics infrastructure with distinction.
“His departure from this portfolio will reduce the number of party representatives with strong credentials in the highest level of the executive administration,” he told Sinar.
He said this when asked to comment on Loke's decision to announce his resignation in response to DAP's reaction to the house arrest decision involving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
Meanwhile, when asked about the possibility of a major Cabinet reshuffle led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Syahruddin dismissed the possibility.
He said the vacancy in the Transport Minister's post would automatically require Anwar to make adjustments to the Cabinet, but it would not necessarily lead to a major government reshuffle.
“PMX is also likely to either leave the portfolio vacant or fill it with another DAP candidate to maintain a stable party coalition quota formula.
“However, if the resignation triggers a portfolio swap among the main component parties, a more comprehensive reshuffle could take place,” he said.
Meanwhile, commenting on DAP candidates seen as suitable to replace Loke, he named several leaders with extensive experience in government administration.
He listed Ipoh Barat Member of Parliament M Kulasegaran, Bukit Mertajam Member of Parliament Steven Sim and Iskandar Puteri Member of Parliament Liew Chin Tong.
“A change to a portfolio as important as the Transport Ministry is likely to prompt DAP to reshuffle the positions of the party's ministers and deputy ministers in the Cabinet.
“This internal reshuffle is also important to ensure a balance in leadership, efficient portfolio distribution and continuity in the ministry's policies,” he said.
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