The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has been on the forefront of
the Malaysian political news for the wrong reasons.
However, I beg to differ that everything is negative about the ongoing
tussle, disputes and interpretation of the MIC constitution by legal experts
from both sides of the divide.
To put things in perspective, it is the party that matters and no
individual is larger than the party. It
is refreshing to see that many people believe that they have the expertise and
capability to lead MIC. This is a
healthy trend for the party and a truly democratic process that we can all be
proud off. MIC surely is not a dying
party as seen by the many leaders who are eager to serve the community, in
particular the Indian community here in Malaysia.
This is a positive environment and as a soccer coach would have termed
it, “I have a complete team with capable players in all departments, including
the reserves.” With ample talents
waiting to serve the party, it can only take the party to greater heights with
the needed transformation to meet current needs.
As we take stock of this long ongoing issue, we can see that it
has not destroyed the party but both the leaders have used their wisdom to come
together to resolve the issue. At a
meeting attended by both Dato’ Seri G. Palanivel and Dato’ Seri Dr S.
Subramaniam in the presence the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and the
Home Minister, it was amicably agreed that both feuding parties will adhere to
the order given by the Registrar of Society (RoS) to conduct fresh election for
all positions, including the President and Deputy President. I am sure both leaders had put the party
before self to come to this decision to resolve the impasse. Only true leaders have the wisdom to come to
such decisions.
I strongly believe that when both the leaders have made a
decision, it is only appropriate and respectful for all members aligned to the
leaders to conform to the decision made. Any
act otherwise will be a direct insult and disrespect to both the leaders.
It is therefore very sad that a member of the party had filed a
court case against RoS only days after this truce was agreed upon. Any such action by any member of the party
should be strongly condemned by both the leaders.
It is highly unethical for any member of the party to act against the
decision made by both leaders.
In fact, the MIC constitution does not condone any court action by
a member before referring the matter to the Central Working Committee (CWC).
Clause 91 of the MIC constitution reads ; Every member shall be
bound by the decision of the CWC in matters related to his rights, obligations,
duties and privileges as a member of the Congress. If he resorts to court
proceedings in respect of his rights, obligations, duties and privileges or on
behalf of any other member or in respect of the rendering or meaning of
the provisions of this constitution without first referring to the CWC or in
violation of any decision or directive of the CWC he shall be ipso facto cease
to be a member of the Congress and shall not be entitled to exercise any of the
rights of a member.
It is therefore very clear that the MIC constitution does not
support dissent and it is now up to both the leaders to decide if they will be
in agreement to uphold the constitution and act accordingly in the interest of
the party. The party constitution is the
single most important document that
protects the existence and smooth operation of the party and the well-being of
the Indian community in Malaysia.
I call upon both the leaders to show the same level of resolve in
the interest of the party to address this suit filed against RoS as it will
divide and create further disunity among members. The implication of this
legal recourse can be very damaging to the party.
As true leaders, I call upon them to act without fear or favour in
the bigger interest of the party!
