After being criticized by the party members, Prof Ramasamy replies. I mentioned that the grassroot members may not be interested in the high level agreements and strategies. Now it seems that this voice of discontent is just a minority. Whatever it is, i think it points to problems that may duplicate BN later. Those who enter politics (and political parties) most likely have personal ambition. It will easy to get a group of people roused up and protest. Thus, Prof Ramasamy and his team should ensure all decisions and issues are clearly explained to members at all levels. I think he needs more people to help him out. If not, his position can be jeopardised.
Critics unfair, says Ramasamy
PENANG: Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy said criticism that he had failed to represent the Indian community was unfair and unfounded.
Dr Ramasamy, who is also Batu Kawan MP, denied that he had ever said he “did not represent the Indian community”.
I was elected by all races therefore I represent everyone … I cannot just represent one community.
“When did I ever say that? Who did I say it to? “I was elected by all races therefore I represent everyone – I have always said that. I cannot just represent one community. I am not an MIC leader.
“I am very upset because that statement (that he had claimed to not represent the Indian community) is malicious, highly defamatory and intended to discredit me,” he said in an interview, adding that since the 1960s, he has been speaking up for the Indian community.
Dr Ramasamy, a former academician, was commenting on newspaper reports that he “has done nothing” to ensure that the Indian community was represented in the current administration.
“I have written many books and articles about the community.
Everyone knows that I have been very vocal. Those who are criticising me now are a small group who are unhappy because they were not given positions in the administration. “These two or three people are not happy because they were not considered for council positions but there are limited seats and I have to take into account things like educational background and commitment to party principles when nominating candidates.
“Four of the seven municipal councillors are Indians from the party. I nominated two Indians who are DAP life members and one Chinese DAP member for councillorship,” Dr Ramasamy said, adding that those who were unhappy should have expressed their dissatisfaction through proper party channels.
“It is not our culture to go to the media when we have problems. If something is not right, let’s solve it internally,” he said. The allegations were made after the party’s Indian Affairs and Cultural Bureau meeting on Thursday. DAP Indian Affairs and Cultural Bureau chairman and Bagan Dalam assemblyman A. Tanasekharan said those who were unhappy were a “disgruntled minority”. “I was at the meeting. I can tell you that almost all present support Dr Ramasamy,” he said.
In a press statement, coordinator for the Batu Kawan constituency, M.C. Pitchey, said everyone was entitled to their own opinion but it should not be construed as the views of all DAP grassroots members. “Those who have criticised Dr Ramasamy must look at the bigger picture and put the Indian community before self-gain. His actions will speak for themselves. It is premature to condemn and defame him like that,” the statement read.