Subramaniam to challenge Palanivel for MIC presidency

KUALA LUMPUR: MIC deputy president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam yesterday announced that he will be contesting the president’s post at the party’s upcoming elections.

With his announcement, this will be first time the number one post will be challenged in 22 years.

On Saturday, MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel had confirmed that he would be defending the post.

Speaking to reporters after meeting his supporters at a convention centre here, Dr S. Subramaniam said: “I am making this decision after seeing the state MIC is in, it is in the interest of the Indian community, MIC members and to ensure the party has a brighter future.”

By his side were MIC vicepresident Datuk M.Saravanan, MIC Youth chief C. Sivarraajh and MIC Wanita chief M. Mohana.

More than 2,000 MIC members, including division and branch heads, had turned up for the gathering to show support for Dr Subramaniam, who is also Health Minister.

The last time the 68-year-old party held a presidential election was in 1993 when the then MIC president Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu was challenged by S.Subramaniam. However, Samy Vellu won.

Dr Subramaniam said the decision was taken following the party grassroots losing their faith and confidence in Palanivel when he failed to resolve the crisis which has beset MIC.