KUALA LUMPUR — DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng has trained his gun against Khairy Jamaluddin for defending UMNO Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s style of politics, saying it proves both Khairy and UMNO are merely “fake progressives”.

In a statement, the Bagan MP said Khairy’s remarks suggesting Akmal’s controversial and culture war-driven politics remain necessary in UMNO were deeply disappointing.

He said Khairy appeared to justify UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s tolerance of Akmal’s conduct because of what he described as the “clear and present danger” posed by Perikatan Nasional (PN) on the political right.

Lim argued that UMNO should not mirror the tactics it criticises in PN.

“Two wrongs do not make a right. If PN is wrong to indulge in extremist actions and controversial politics to strengthen Malay nationalist support, then it is equally wrong for UMNO Youth leaders to do the same,” he said.

He added that Khairy’s current position sharply contrasts with the more moderate and non-racial image he projected after being sacked from UMNO by Zahid before eventually rejoining the party.

“At that time, Khairy promoted progressive and inclusive policies said to benefit all Malaysians. His attempt now to whitewash Akmal’s irresponsible acts demonstrates that both Khairy and UMNO are fake progressives,” Lim said.

The former finance minister also accused UMNO of pursuing power at all costs, citing what he described as a failed attempt to topple the Negeri Sembilan state government and the party’s decision to contest all 56 seats in the next Johor state election despite being part of a coalition government.

“For those who once placed hopes in Khairy, it is now clear that both he and UMNO have proven that a leopard cannot change its spots,” he added.