DAP has decided to drop Charles Santiago in the coming general election while shuffling around some of its senior lawmakers.

Party secretary-general Anthony Loke, in making the announcement today, said three DAP candidates will see their seats changed, with one newcomer added.

The four are Gobind Singh Deo who will be contesting in Damansara, Yeo Bee Yin in Puchong, Syahredzan Johan in Bangi and V. Ganabatirau in Klang. 

Gobind, who is also Selangor DAP chief, had been a three-term MP for Puchong before this.

Santiago’s fate was highly anticipated before this and the three-term MP will be replaced by Ganabatirau who will be promoted to contest in a federal seat.

He also remains a Selangor assemblyman as the Pakatan Harapan-run state will not be holding its state polls during the general election.

Incumbent Damansara MP Tony Pua and incumbent Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming will not stand in the coming polls.

In an immediate response, Santiago said that his successor Ganabathirao shares the same dream for this country. 

“And just like I did, he too needs your support. I know many of you are upset that I am not fielded again but I know we are better than the anger. 

“We are at a crucial time, where each of our vote counts. Therefore, I humbly request that you cast your vote for a PH government,” he said in a statement. 

He said that his heartfelt good wishes go out to Ganabatirau as he campaigns for the people’s support.

“On my part, I will be pushing our message to vote out Umno and all corrupt politicians, as Malaysians deserve better. 

“So, let’s stand united. Let’s do this together. Thank you.”

Gobind said that he met Santiago some time ago and informed him that there were some issues brought to his attention. 

“There were proposals (new candidate) put forward and one of them was Ganabatirau. He (Santiago) has served in 2008, 2013 and 2018 (in Klang seat).

“He was informed of replacements. The party made the decision.  

“It was not an easy one. We were asked to look at different personalities to take over as MP.”

He said DAP has four seats in Selangor and they have to look and consider different candidates to take over in all four constituencies. It was similarly the case in Klang.

Gobind added that Santiago had been given the opportunity to serve for three terms, and it was time to move forward with new candidates. – October 26, 2022.