Taking over leadership not on Liow's mind

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KUALA LUMPUR: MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said it has never crossed his mind to take over the party's leadership.

Liow said as a responsible party member, he would carry out the responsibilities entrusted to him.

"I have never thought about taking over the party leadership. Some people are making all kinds of speculation," Liow said at Parliament Square after attending the 52nd National Day celebrations yesterday.

Liow, who is also the health minister, was asked to comment on reports that he might be asked to take over as MCA's presidency following speculation that party president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat might step down to resolve the current party problems.

Liow said the important thing was for the MCA to solve its internal problem quickly.

"We will ensure that the MCA continues to be strong to help Barisan Nasional."

On the proposal to call for an extraordinary general meeting, Liow said this was stipulated in the party constitution.

"The EGM can be held anytime, provided the requirement is met."

In Seremban, a veteran state MCA leader has called on Ong and sacked deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek to immediately end their bickering, saying this had caused divisions at federal and state levels.

The leader, who wanted to remain anonymous, said the problems between the party's top two leaders had created another Team A and Team B scenario reminiscent of the rivalry between Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik and Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek.

"Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat and Dr Chua must look at the bigger picture. For example, in Negri Sembilan, we once again have two factions.

"If this internal bickering continues, I can assure you that the MCA will be a party of the past, not only in the state, but also at federal level."