Ahead of MCA leadership battle, fresh claims of money politics
(MM) – The MCA leadership battle is getting intense, with fresh allegations of money-politics and vote-buying.
Claims have emerged that some 120 party division chairmen have been receiving “allowances” to ensure the division delegates’ allegiance.
Ghost writers have also been paid to promote certain individuals.
Three candidates have confirmed their candidacies for the president’s post. They are Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat and Gan Peng Sieu.
Outgoing president Datuk Seri Chua Soi Lek is keeping his plans close to heart. Observers say he might enter the fray at the 11th hour to hamper Liow’s chances.
Liow is said to have the backing of some 1,000 of the 2,385 delegates and is working hard to influence at least 600 to 700 more to ensure he gets the post.
Observers say former president Ong may not be able to fare well, as he is only able to woo some 200 delegates through sympathy, while Gan is said to have some 900 delegates backing him.
Gan rubbished allegations of being Dr Chua’s proxy but may contest for the deputy president’s post against Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong if Dr Chua decides to join at the last minute.
If that happens, Ong’s chances will being squashed, leaving Dr Chua and Liow to slug it out.
If Dr Chua wins, he may step down mid-term and hand over the presidency to Gan but only if the latter wins the No. 2 post.
“It’s a game of power and keeping control of the party. The most important thing is whether MCA can rally the Chinese community to support Barisan Nasional (BN),” said an observer.
“Right now, Malaysians know MCA does not have the support of the community and as long as MCA keeps busy fighting for power and leadership control, the party can never influence the community to support BN.
“The party leaders need to get real. Feel the pulse of the community and seek their wishes and needs. Then try and fulfill them.
“If the party leaders fail to do so, they may end up like Gerakan in the next general election.”
