Democratic Action Party secretary-general Lim Kit Siang is still needed by the party, said his political secretary, Hew Kuan Yau.

Lim, who has been a central figure in the Opposition for three decades, will be tendering his resignation at the party's central committee meeting today.

"Lim is still needed as this is a crucial time for the party in reinventing itself and to continue the party's struggle," he said. The party, he added, did not blame Lim, Penang chief Karpal Singh and chairman Chen Man Hin for their decision to join BA.

For the past 30 years, DAP was the main opposition party but its poor showing at the recent polls meant this role will now be championed by PAS.

"It was not a mistake to join Barisan Altenatif. Joining BA was a correct decision, a decision that was supported by the party's members," Hew told malaysiakini , adding that it was wrong to pin the blame on just one individual.

Although the party's poor showing have contributed to the low morale among members, he said the party needs to restructure itself and do a post-mortem of the election.

"Lim's resignation at this time would damage the unity of the party as he is a key leader in DAP."

On whether DAP's central committee would accept Lim's resignation, Hew said that it was up to the members. The central committee is scheduled to meet at 3 pm today.