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Mahathir: I was wrong about DAP

This article is more than 12 months old

SHAH ALAM Former premier Mahathir Mohamad, who has been critical of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) in the past, has changed his tune, saying he was wrong about the Chinese-dominated party after attending its national conference for the first time yesterday.

"It is an experience for me," said Dr Mahathir during a press conference at the Ideal Convention Centre here.

"DAP's party song is in the national language and the conference is also conducted in the national language through and through.

"I see members from different racial backgrounds attending the conference here today. DAP is not a Chinese-only party but a multiracial one. They have non-Chinese members holding top posts in the party," he said.

Dr Mahathir also disagreed with Prime Minister Najib Razak's claim that the country's political struggle was only between Umno and DAP.

"Umno is in Barisan Nasional and DAP is with the Pakatan Harapan coalition, with Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia joining them soon. I am baffled by what he said," said Dr Mahathir.

"DAP has no way to go at it alone in forming the government, it needs Pakatan and that is why we have an opposition coalition."

Dr Mahathir also said they were still getting other like-minded individuals and groups to come together.

"If all opposition parties stand together as a united unit, the chances of winning will be better."

When asked when Pribumi would join the coalition, he said: "I have to consult my colleagues. We will decide as soon as possible. Be patient."

- THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK

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