PETALING JAYA: MCA Asserts Right to Make Decision on Contesting State Elections
Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, the president of MCA, has stated that the party has the right to decide not to contest in the upcoming state elections. As one of the founding members of the Barisan Nasional coalition, MCA asserts their right to make decisions on their own future.
Dr. Wee emphasized this during a briefing for grassroots members from Selangor, Federal Territories, and Negri Sembilan last Saturday (July 8). He stated, “The party has the right to determine the future of our political party; it is not for others to determine our actions.”
The decision to sit out the polls was made in a central committee meeting held on Wednesday (July 5), according to Dr. Wee. He made these comments in response to statements made by former Umno information chief Shahril Hamdan, who suggested that MCA and MIC’s decision not to field candidates in the six state polls was influenced by feeling sidelined by Umno after Barisan formed a unity government with its former rival, Pakatan Harapan.
Dr. Wee expressed his gratitude for the support from MCA members regarding the decision. He also stressed the importance of moving forward and the need for the party to play its role as a coalition component party to support Barisan candidates.
MCA secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon revealed that the decision to sit out the polls was reached after in-depth discussions, analysis, and with the purpose of carrying out reforms and revival within the party. He stated, “During this period, MCA will focus more on preparing for the 16th General Election.”
According to the Election Commission, the polling day for the state elections in Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, and Penang has been scheduled for August 12.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
