Wee: Competition shows spirit of democracy is alive

KUALA LUMPUR: Democracy is alive in MCA with the strong competition for the various positions seen in the party elections, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.Taking the party’s top post as an example, the MCA president, who is seeking his second term, said anyone could take on the position.

“This shows that MCA is a democratic party.

“At the end of the nomination, when the candidates’ lists are finalised, there must be a party election. We have to face it,” he said after the nomination for the party polls at Wisma MCA here yesterday.

Dr Wee thanked his supporters while seeking support and the mandate to continue leading and reforming the party.

“I will introduce and implement three major reforms to revive and rebuild the party to ensure its sustainable growth.

“I will do my very best to ensure the party becomes stronger, self-sufficient and independent to better serve the country and the people,” he said.

Dr Wee has invited all other candidates to join him on the campaign trail in various states.

“I started this practice when I was contesting for the party’s Youth chief post.

“No matter what position one is contesting, they can just come and join.

“This will allow the central delegates to know the candidates better,” he added.

Dr Wee is being challenged by former central committee member Datuk Tan Chong Seng for the party president’s post.

Tan said that if elected, he will rebuild the relationship between MCA and the Chinese community to regain their support.

“I am not seeking an official position (in the government) but only hope that the party will regain its strength,” he said, adding that the party has lost its direction and he wishes to be able to lead it back to the right path.Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, who won the deputy president’s post uncontested, expressed his gratitude to the grassroots for their support.

Emphasising that the party election will be conducted in an open and transparent manner, he said he will work with the new leadership to regain the trust and support of the Chinese community.

“MCA is going through a low point; we will attract more young people to join us.

“We need to review our strategies and explain to the Chinese community that we have stood by them for many years and the efforts we have made to society, the people and the nation,” he added.

Outgoing Youth chief Datuk Nicole Wong Siaw Ting, who is vying for one of the four vice-president posts, said she will use the experience to bring changes to the party.

“We need a breakthrough.

“As a female youth leader and with my experience in interacting with the youngsters, I feel that I can do more for the party,” she said.

Her fellow competitor Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng, who is Tanjung Piai MP, has described the party election as a “friendly match” with no personal agenda.

“It is carried out to steer the party forward; everyone should close ranks, move forward, and focus on rebuilding the party together after this,” he said.