Penang Gerakan publicity bureau chief Ooi Zhi Yi asked how was it possible for Lim to juggle 11 state government body chairmanships, while being an MP, state assemblyman and a CM, all at the same time.
“Many DAP and Pakatan Harapan leaders had stressed the importance of decentralisation of administration and power sharing.
“But, with so many of the important positions held by the CM, it seems that they are not walking their talk.
“Perhaps the DAP and Pakatan Harapan could no longer identify quality leaders who have the calibre to hold such positions?” Ooi asked in a press conference at the state Gerakan headquarters here today.
Ooi raised the question following the passing of a state law to form a company to manage stadiums and open areas recently.
The new law states the chairmanship of the Stadium and Open Areas Corporation must be the sitting chief minister.
Ooi then revealed the current positions held by Lim, that is, as chairman of 11 state-linked companies and agencies, and three government posts, namely, as CM, Bagan MP and Air Putih state assemblyman.
The 11 state agencies are Penang Development Corporation, Penang Hill Corporation, PBA Holdings Berhad, Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang, Penang Global Tourism, BPO Premier Sdn Bhd, Premier Horizon Ventures Sdn Bhd, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau, George Town World Heritage Incorporated, Penang Museum Board, Invest-in Penang Board.
He also asked if the Penang government was insecure, fearful of “enemies within”, by not having anyone else as chairman of the 11 state-linked companies and agencies.
“By having all the chairmanships held by one person, it also raises the question of possible neglect as to some important issues.
“In view of the state facing many local issues these past few years, could it be due to the overload of responsibilities given to one individual?” Ooi asked, saying Lim was perhaps having “his hand in too many pies?”