Mah still undecided on contest for Gerakan chief

One of Gerakan's three hopefuls for the party the presidency, Mah Siew Keong, has pleaded for a couple of days to make "maximum consultations" before deciding on his political future in the party.

The Gerakan presidency was left vacant after acting president Chang Ko Youn confirmed yesterday that he was stepping aside to make way for younger leaders to rise. 

Mah (right) is the secretary-general and also a vice-president in Gerakan, which has been rocked by its dismal performance during the 13th general election of May 5. 

"My 15 years of working under Dr Lim Keng Yaik has taught me to be patient and I will hit back at the critics and explain my vision and aspirations for the party to the delegates at the right time," Mah said in a press statement released today.

He said he would also consult with Chang, past president Koh Tsu Koon and with state and grassroots leaders as well before making a formal announcement on Friday.

While lauding outgoing president Chang as an "indefatigable" leader who sacrificed for the party, Mah warned Gerakan members not to attempt "character assassination on me and a few other leaders" using Facebook. 

"After two defeats in the 12th and 13th general elections, Gerakan can ill-afford any nasty contest as our main priority is to strengthen the party and not eliminate one another," Mah warned.

Besides Mah, former secretary-general Chia Kwang Chye and Penang Gerakan chief Teng Chang Yeow are also seen as potential candidates to head Gerakan, a component member of the ruling BN federal government.