Former MCA deputy president Dr Chua Soi Lek expressed surprise over the sudden emergence of former party chief Ong Ka Ting in the presidential race, scheduled for March 28.

Chua said it was against Ka Ting's stand that he did not want to be involved in party matters anymore when announcing his decision to quit politics

NONE "In fact as the former party president, he had remained silent when the party was going through a serious crisis," he told reporters after meeting 400 community leaders in Jalan Bakri, Muar today.

As the immediate past president, Ka Ting should have come forward to assist when the party was facing problems right from the start but strangely, he has suddenly come forward to claim that he was ready to help, he said.

"This will further split the party," he said.

women leader forum scah 240408 chew mei fun Chua, like incumbent MCA chief Ong Tee Keat, nevertheless said Ka Ting has the right to contest for the presidency.

However, Wanita MCA chief Chew Mei Fun welcomed the calls for Ka Ting to make a comeback.

"Although it is not confirmed that he would contest (the presidency), history shows that MCA under his leadership was stronger and had no problems," she told reporters.

 

Donald Lim to vie for a VP post

Meanwhile, former vice-president Donald Lim today announced his intention to contest one of the four VP’s posts.

NONE Lim, who is a member of the party's central committee (CC), said he arrived at the decision after consultations with party members and central delegates, especially from Selangor.

"Most of the Selangor MCA leaders were not happy when the president (Ong) sent outsiders to (lead) Selangor. I believe Selangor has many good leaders to help the BN win back the state," he told a news conference.

Ong had appointed Wong Foon Meng, who is MCA secretary-general, as the Selangor liaison committee chairman.

Several Selangor MCA leaders, including from Sabak Bernam, Gombak, Shah Alam and Ampang, were present at the news conference, and expressed support for Lim.

   

Lim, who was defeated in the four-cornered contest for the MCA deputy presidency on Oct 18, 2008, said he hoped that the central delegates would use their wisdom in electing the new leadership.

"Do not elect leaders based on camps. Instead, elect those who are experienced and able to serve the party, community and the country," he said.

Deputy info minister to go for CC seat

   

In another development, MCA Wanita secretary-general senator Heng Seai Kie announced that she would be going for a CC post at the upcoming party elections.

NONE "I believe as a CC member, I can still contribute to the party and the nation," Heng said when contacted by Bernama today.

She this when asked whether she would be vying for any of the top posts in the party like the vice-president's post.

Heng, who is also deputy minister of information communication and culture, added that her decision had received the support by Wanita MCA Perak.