Press Conference Statement
by DAP Secretary General and MP for Kota Melaka, Kerk Kim Hock
in Kota Kinabalu
on Friday, October 4, 2002

Gaya by election: Vote DAP to reject Barisan Nasional's one party rule

Following the return of the PBS to the Barisan Nasional and thus resulting in an Opposition vacuum here in Sabah, the Gaya voters will have the opportunity on October 12, 2002 to vote on behalf of all Sabahans to send a clear, effective and determined message to the Barisan Nasional government , that is, Sabahans reject one party rule and that restoration of Sabah democracy shall begin at Gaya.

The present by-election is therefore not just a by election to fill the casual vacancy created by the disqualification of Datuk Yong Teck Lee, it is a battle that has important and great political significance.

I therefore call on the Gaya voters to strike a blow for DAP's continuing battle in Sabah for justice, freedom, democracy and equality as well as to clearly reject the Barisan Nasional's one party rule.

Since the DAP's birth in 1966, we have been courageously, persistently and relentlessly fighting for justice, freedom, democracy and equality. Since setting foot in Sabah in the seventies, we have continued such battle for the Sabahans.

Despite facing heavy electoral debacles since 1990, we have never given up our ideals, nor have we given up our battle. Our participation in the Gaya by election is thus a continuing DAP's battle for freedom, justice, democracy, equality and good governance for Sabah and Malaysia.

We realize the odds we are facing in this uphill battle. We do not only have to face the Barisan Nasional, which has the tremendous might of money, machinery and manpower, we must also face the split of Opposition votes as a result of Parti Keadilan Nasional's participation.

However, we have a responsibility to Malaysia, Sabah, the people and our ideals. At a time when there is an urgent need for Sabahans to reject one party rule as well as to have an effective Opposition voice, DAP must be prepared and has decided to provide the choice and hope to the people.

We believe that with our proven record of being a moderate, reliable and effective opposition party, we are the best choice for Gaya voters.