The practice of 'menu politics' (offering a slate of preferred candidates) is an insult to Gerakan's central delegates, said party vice-presidency candidate Rhina Bhar.

"I don't think it is a healthy culture. This is an insult to delegates who are wise," she added when contacted today.

Rhina was asked to comment on the circulation of a 'menu' in the run-up to the party elections, from Friday.

The 'menu' is said to list Dr S Vijayaratnam, Chang Ko Youn and Dr Teng Hock Nan as the preferred candidates for vice-presidency.

Rhina is a surprise contender. Last week, the lawyer-cum-politician raised eyebrows when she decided not to defend her Wanita chief's post on grounds of party unity.

However, she subsequently announced that she would vie for one of three vice-president posts at stake.

Apart from incumbents Vijayaratnam, Tan and committee member Teng, incumbent deputy secretary-general Chang Ko Youn is also in the race.

Trust in delegates

Asked if the 'menu' would undermine her chances, Rhina replied: "It does not matter. I trust the decision and wisdom of the delegates."

If elected, she said Gerakan would make history by being the first political party in the country to have a woman vice-president.

In a press statement earlier, Rhina said by contesting for vice-president, she is offering to continue voicing issues without fear or favour.

"I am no coward but one who looks at the larger picture in the interest of the party and make the appropriate sacrifice," she added.

On a related matter, Rhina called on incumbent president Dr Lim Keng Yaik and his deputy president- turned-challenger Kerk Choo Ting to end their open bickering.

"If there is anything amiss between the duo, they should settle it behind closed doors. Party elections are an internal matter," she was quoted as saying by Bernama .

She said it is disheartening and disappointing to see the two senior leaders launch personal attacks at one another through the media.

"The two of them should know how to campaign. They should be stating what they want to do for the party and not make personal attacks. Delegates don't want to hear personal matters during the campaign," she added.

"I know (president) Dr Lim is not a dictator. At the same time, I realise that accusing Kerk as not contributing anything to the party over the past 16 years is not a proper comment. It gives a negative impression about us."

Since Kerk announced his candidacy last Saturday, both the leaders and their respective camps have been trading barbs and accusations.