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Wednesday November 25, 2009

DPM: We want to help MCA end crisis

By MAZWIN NIK ANIS


PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and Barisan Nasional have no interest nor any intention to “meddle” in MCA’s affairs, said Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that however, after looking at the situation turning “critical” and fearing that the crisis would be prolonged, Najib as Barisan Nasional chairman felt that “help” should be extended.

“We are not interested in interfering in MCA’s affairs but we don’t see the party’s problems ending. The party’s internal crisis has been going on for almost a year.

“Let me reiterate that the Prime Minister and I have no vested interest in wanting to help MCA end its leadership crisis. I have a lot on my plate; there is the (possibility of) a by-election, floods and other matters that need my attention.

“The reason why we want to help is because MCA is an important party in Barisan. We just want to help them solve their problems. That is all,” he told reporters after chairing the National Mineral Council meeting yesterday.

The Deputy Prime Minister was asked to comment on a statement by MCA central committee member Datuk Ti Lian Ker who questioned the need for Najib and Muhyiddin to intervene in the party crisis when MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat had the support of two-thirds of the central committee’s members.

He said he would continue his meetings and dicussions with MCA leaders as it was a responsibility given to him by the Prime Minister.

Muhyiddin also called on party leaders not to make statements which would only confuse the public and MCA members, and urged all quarters to accept the views that had been put forward by the Prime Minister and him.

“I hope party leaders can come together to find a formula to end the crisis. While we look for a formula that is acceptable to all parties, it is best that we refrain from making any statements.

“We should talk only when we have come to a conclusion. Only then will our image be good,” he said.

Ong had said that he was not averse to having fresh party polls in March while MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai has said that he prefers that it be held together with the party annual general assembly on Dec 5.

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