In a status update at 9pm, the chief minister said he was well aware that certain quarters wanted him to take a leave of absence pending his corruption trial.
Lim however said his trial was Barisan Nasional’s “systematic prosecution” of its political foes and a clear attempt at deflecting attention on the larger political donation controversy that shook the nation.
Lim also said he felt the charges slapped on him were a politically-motivated form of persecution, similar to how former Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim was charged and jailed.
“Worst still, Penangites are being laughed at because they elected a supposedly ‘corrupt’ Chief Minister.
“I will contest these lies and falsehoods in court to the very end, to expose the underhanded and vile political persecution by Barisan Nasional, which will cause encumbrance and vexation to the people of Penang,” he said in the status update.
This afternoon, Lim had said snap polls in Penang ought to be held to restore the “democracy” of Malaysians, following their loss of confidence with the ruling government’s misdeeds.
He also vowed the decision to call for an election in the state would only be made after consultation with Pakatan Harapan partners.
“This election is not about me. They have decided to send me to jail anyway.
“This election is for the people to decide if they still want DAP and Pakatan Harapan to serve them,” Lim added.