Though I am usually apolitical but I do follow the recent political developments in our country with much interest.

It is with much dismay when I read in the newspapers that the MCA is fielding most of the 'old horses' for the coming general elections. They are the very people who have brought much shame, degradation and humiliation to the MCA - a major component party of the BN government.

The man who took the central stage in the factionalism of the party and was the cause of discontent and disarray had to resign under suspicious circumstances. Though he is not at the helm anymore, he has left a 'legacy' of his so-called 'chosen ones' to propagate his agenda. Take a look at the recent Malaysia-China Economic Conference 2004. Though officiated by the honourable prime minister of Malaysia, none of the so-called 'Team A' leaders had the courtesy to be present although they were invited.

I honestly feel sorry that the present president of MCA seems to be in a fix regarding ways to address the inherent problems in the party. He simply does not have the stature of 'statesmanship' and above all the commitment and leadership to solve the internal bickering. He claims that peace has been restored and that there is no more factionalism. Sadly, however, the reality does not correspond with his claims.

To allow all MCA incumbents to be retained would be a betrayal of the peoples' trust. Let's take Negri Sembilan as an example. Two 'turncoats' had joined the ranks of the BN representatives. They were, once upon a time, ferocious paper tigers on the prowl on all issues, imaginary or otherwise. But having enjoyed the perks of being on the government bench they have recently been titled, pampered and silenced like church mice.

Theirs are not isolated cases. There are many others who have been given the opportunity to warm the seats at the state assemblies and parliament. If the present MCA leadership were to dictate and maintain the status quo, then not only the party but all the rakyat is being held for ransom.

Redemption for MCA and the BN can only happen if we weed out the deadwood and bring in new blood to run the show with fresh ideas and accountability.

It is incumbent upon the prime minister as the chairman of the BN to be himself and to deliver what he has promised in his 100 days of excellence. He has affirmed that "there's no place in my administration for political leaders who do not do what they say."

Allowing the MCA to maintain the deadwood and status quo is definitely not the best of options. It may even be highly detrimental to the BN as a whole. It has been said that our prime minister has a tough side when it comes to matters of principle. We shall patiently await his exercise of 'toughness' to pick only the best for the good of our nation.