Presidential hopeful wants MCA to quit BN, moots referendum

MCA presidential hopeful Gan Ping Sieu has suggested that a referendum is held to determine if the party should remain in BN.

Gan said he is of the opinion that MCA should leave the coalition because of the warming ties between Umno and PAS, but the decision should be reached through the democratic process.

“BN was built on the principle of inclusiveness and moderation, and now we have a main dominating component party of BN working closely and forming an alliance with PAS.

“This is deviating not only from MCA's principles but also from what BN stands for.

“This is why I think it is imperative for MCA - going through the democratic process: central delegates or even a referendum - to get ourselves out of BN so we can start over again,” he added.

Gan was speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today, where he announced his intention to contest for the position of president in the Nov 4 MCA election.

He reiterated that Umno has not only become more conservative following its last party election but is also working with a party with theocratic aspirations.

He said MCA does not have the power to dissolve BN or to boot Umno from the coalition, hence the only natural choice is to at least withdraw from it.

MCA, which was formed in 1949, was a member of BN's predecessor Alliance.

Following its routing from power in the May 9 general election, BN, once considered an impregnable fortress, has been left with four parties from 13. - Mkini