JOHOR BARU: Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman should set a good example by temporarily stepping down as he is presently facing criminal charges, says a Johor DAP leader.
Dr Boo Cheng Hau said that if Muda wants to continue to work with Pakatan Harapan, the Muar MP should set a good example for the younger generation without dragging down Pakatan.
He added that Syed Saddiq should go through due legal process to clear his own name before resuming his public posts.
Dr Boo added that Syed Saddiq was facing charges of criminal breach of trust and money laundering.
Dr Boo stressed that Pakatan component parties have to set a higher standard of integrity than Umno and Barisan Nasional because "we have to offer a formidable alternative and solutions to the people".
He had earlier called on DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng, who is also facing a corruption charge, to relinquish his post until he has cleared his name in court.
He had said that it would be hard for the party to maintain its principles and core values and keep a good public image if its leaders faced criminal charges in court.
On another issue, Dr Boo urged civil society including NGOs, Chinese associations and others to take a consistent and collective stand in boycotting any political leader who is convicted or facing corruption charges.
“They should not provide them (leaders) any platform for undue publicity by sending confusing messages to the public until their name is cleared in the courts,” he added.
He added that civil society has to play a more proactive role in demanding public figures and leaders to have high integrity and credibility.
“I condemn certain associations which have given convicts' heroic treatment and overwhelming publicity.
“This has sent the wrong message to the public and our future leaders that corruption is accepted in Malaysian culture,” he said, warning members of political parties not to worship their leaders.