Differences take a new twist

(The Malay Mail) - Two MIC appointees in Perak govt fail to show up citing professional reasons 

THE unsettled business between MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir (pic) regarding the position of the state legislative assembly speaker is taking a new twist.

While Palanivel is adamant his party would reject any posts in the Perak government if it was not given the speaker's chair, two of his men have been offered positions in the state government to represent the Indian community.

On Friday, in a press statement from the menteri besar’s office Lumut MIC division chief V. Elango was named adviser to menteri besar while MIC national Youth secretary-general C. Sivaraj for the position of a special officer effective last Saturday.

Both were supposed to report for duty yesterday but did not show up to sign their letters of appointment.

Both claimed that they needed more time.

“I am still attached to Yayasan Bina Upaya Darul Ridzuan as the 1Malaysia unit manager and I need to resign before I take up a new position,” Sivaraj told The Malay Mail.

He said he needed time to handover most of his responsibilities in the party to his assistant before taking up the position.

Although Elango and Sivaraj have cited professional reasons for the delay, party insiders have indicated the duo are tied down by the party’s stand.

“The party will have to deliberate on the matter before they are allowed to take any positions offered. The party is still firm on their stand in wanting the speaker's post,” he said.

It is learnt that MIC central working committee (CWC) was expected to discuss the matter today.

"That's why both are bidding for more time. They want to make sure they do not offend any side. But it will be sticky if they have to choose either one," he said.

The senior member said although most party members hoped Palanivel and Zambry would sort their differences as soon as possible, the chances are looking slimmer by the day.

“The battle is getting tougher with each one trying to outdo the other,” he said.