Barisan Nasional Youth chairperson Khairy Jamaluddin has today expressed hope that a “young candidate” would be fielded in the upcoming Hulu Selangor by-election.

"While I said before that we want a youth-friendly candidate, now I am saying that we want a young candidate. I really hope that a young candidate will be fielded,” he said.

azlan Though Khairy did not name anyone, it appear to be a tacit endorsement of MIC Youth deputy chief V Mugilan as the candidate.

Khairy’s comments comes just 24 hours before BN deputy chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin announces the coalition’s candidate, amidst controversy that MIC’s nominee G Palanivel would be dropped.

Rumours are gaining momentum that Muhyiddin would name Mugilan as the candidate, much to the chagrin of MIC leaders.

This has led to 30 of 72 Hulu Selangor MIC branch leaders today threatening to dissolve their branches in protest should Palanivel not be fielded.

Don't threaten BN

Speaking at a press conference at the Parliament lobby today, Khairy also criticised MIC leaders who have made threats against the BN leadership over the rumours.

"We in the youth movement hope that all parties will calm down before the announcement of the candidate by the deputy prime minister.

"Speculations and threats from various quarters will not help BN's campaign. The threats about divisions that will boycott or close down, I hope won't be repeated.”

However, Khairy later skirted a question when asked if any action would be taken against MIC leaders who issued the threats.

"We have to see if they continue with this. I won't presume to foresee what the will do next.

The important thing is that they don't make threats one day before the nominations, especially when we have a good chance to win.

"The important thing is, we should support the candidate picked. This is our feedback, the important part is unity and comradeship," concluded the Rembau parliamentarian.