MCA vice-presidency candidate Tan Chai Ho has denied that he is a member of the so-called ' Wawasan Team ' led by former party president Dr Ling Liong Sik.

"I have never heard of this (Wawasan Team). Do you think I am a member?" he asked reporters during a press conference in Subang Jaya today.

However, when pressed for a clearer answer, he denied being a member of the team.

Asked if he has been persuaded to join any alliance, Tan - who is seen as Ling's close ally - would only say: "It is normal and necessary for candidates to show concern for one another."

He said even if some candidates want to form their own alliance, they must put the interest of the party above all.

"We don't want alliances formed by individuals that could jeopardise party unity," he said.

Bernama reported yesterday that apart from Tan, other members in the 'Wawasan Team' are three more vice-presidency candidates Donald Lim Siang Chai, Chor Chee Heung and Chau Tet On.

According to a recent news report, Ling ( right ) is allegedly campaigning for his sons and party secretary-general Ting Chew Peh in the run-up to the elections, which will be held on Aug 20.

However, he has rebutted the claim and dismissed the report as 'mischievous' .

"I have retired and that fact will not change," he had said earlier.

The race for the four vice-presidents' posts is turning out to be competitive nine-way contest.

Also in the running are heavyweights Dr Fong Chan Onn, Dr Chua Soi Lek, Fu Ah Kiow, Ong Tee Keat and Yap Pian Hon.

Asked if he is confident that he will win a seat, Tan said it is hard for him to assess the current situation because the final decision will lie with the delegates.

"I can only carry out my work with honesty. I hope my efforts and sincerity will be seen by the central delegates," he said.