Ong Says Umno Should Consider BN Component Parties' Views On Discussions With PAS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) -- MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said as a Barisan Nasional (BN) component party, Umno should consider the views of the other component parties on having 'muzakarah' (discussions) with PAS.

He said this was to avoid any suspicions and to safeguard the interests of all the races and Malaysia's plural society.

"Umno has a right to have discussions with any party. What is important is the BN spirit of always safeguarding the interests of the various races," Ong told reporters after chairing the MCA central committee here Thursday.

Asked if MCA would have any discussions with the DAP, Ong said: "We have no discussions with the DAP. We always have discussions with other BN component parties. That is for the interests of the various races."

Meanwhile, Ong denied charges that there was a split in the party into a Team A and a Team B leading up the party's elections in October.

"The central committee today denied any impressions given in that context. We feel it is inaccurate and incorrect that MCA party elections still go along group lines or are split into Team A or Team B," he said.

On that note, Ong, who has decided not to contest in the party elections, said he has decided to be neutral and will not campaign for any candidate including his elder brother MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan.

"I leave the decision to choose the top leadership with the delegates. I have to be fair to all. I will not interfere and that means I will not campaign for anyone," he said.

In the central committee meeting that lasted five hours, Ong reminded members involved in campaigning to adhere to the rules laid down for all levels of party elections.

He said disciplinary action will be taken against offenders indulging in money politics or breaking rules.

"They must go for clean democratic elections. No money politics, no unhealthy activities, they should not violate the conduct and the rules under the party constitution.

-- BERNAMA

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