Palanivel: “Najib caught me by surprise”

I wasn't pursuing it, says MIC chief as other leaders express happiness over PM's announcement of a minister's post for him

PUTRAJAYA: MIC president G Palanivel described his appointment as minister in the Prime Minister’s Department as historic and one which caught him completely by surprise.

“I was not pursuing it and I am surprised. I accept the appointment as a recognition for MIC and Indians. The community has got back what it wanted,” said Palanivel.

MIC’s immediate past president, S Samy Vellu was glad that his protege had been appointed a full minister.

“I’m happy with the appointment. Palanivel is doing a good job. We have been waiting for so long,” said Samy Vellu.

Meanwhile, MIC deputy president Dr S Subramaniam said that the appointment would give the party a bigger boost to deliver to the community.

CWC member, Randhir Singh said: “It is apt and appropriate. It shows the government is concerned. We thank the PM. We shall support him.

The party has been requesting for two minister post for some time now. The last time MIC had two ministers in the cabinet was in 1976. They were M Manikavasagam and Athi Nahappan.