THOMAS Fann, who was re-elected as Bersih chairman recently, has resigned.

Fann, who had steered the electoral watchdog since 2018, said he was committed to a smooth handover.

“To ensure a smooth transition of leadership until a new chair is elected, I will remain in the post for two months,” he said in a statement today.

“Though I won the chairmanship uncontested for another term, it is clear to me that my efforts to evolve Bersih into a people’s institution were rejected by the majority of the endorsing NGOs (non-governmental organisations) of Bersih.”

Fann took over the chairman’s post from Maria Chin Abdullah in October 2018.

With four out of five senior committee posts taken up by a rival faction, Fann said it was a clear message to him that his vision for Bersih was rejected.

He also said he and former student activist Wong Yan Ke, who has now been elected as deputy chairman, had opposing views on the direction Bersih would take and, hence, the former could not continue.

“As much as his team and those who helped secure their victory are committed to restoring Bersih as a people’s movement, I’m committed to evolving Bersih to become a people’s institution,” he said.

“In good conscience, I cannot lead a divided steering committee that is pulling in opposite directions or defy the will of the majority of the endorsing NGOs.

“Hence, it’s only fair for Wong and his team to have a free hand to take Bersih in the direction they see fit over the next two years.”

While Fann will be in an acting role for two months, he said he would not be deciding on any major financial or policy decisions for Bersih.

“That also means I will not be taking any more interviews or answering any questions from the media in the capacity of chairperson or speak for Bersih,” he said. – November 19, 2023.