G Palanivel was returned unopposed to the MIC presidency after nominations closed at noon today.

Dr S Subramaniam, who was among those initially speculated to challenge Palanivel, ended up accompanying him through the MIC headquarters where the nomination was taking place.

palanivel subramaniam 010913 He also placed a floral garland after returning officer K Kumaran announced Palanivel as the president for the next three years.

Palanivel needed 50 to qualify but received 617 nominations for the position, said Kumaran.

Palanivel ( right ) and Subramaniam (left ) were reported to have agreed to a truce brokered by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Palanivel is to step down by in early 2016, making way for his deputy, Subramaniam, to take over.

Elections for deputy presidency and other central working committee positions are to be held in November this year, but Subramaniam is speculated to retain his position unopposed.

Subject to feedback

Speaking at a press conference later, Palanivel however said this is subject to feedback from the party's branch chairpersons.

In MIC presidential elections, 50 nominations from branch chairpersons are needed to qualify, each seconded by five other branch chairpersons.

When asked if he was reneging on his word, he replied in the negative.

The MIC president also hinted that it wasn't cut and dried he would step down in 2016.

"No, we have to look at things very carefully. When I look at the situation (where) the branches all want me to continue, most of the branch members say I must go back again (as president).

"So I will make a decision in around 2016. I also feel like retiring but then the branches are forcing me back. I have been in politics since 1968 so it is a very long period for me. Very long," he said.