6 days ago
MIC open to new alliances, but Johari dismisses remarks as emotion-driven, not party stand
UMNO Vice President Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani dismissed MIC Deputy President Datuk Seri M. Saravanan's recent remarks hinting that MIC might leave BN, saying it was a personal opinion of Saravanan and not an official party decision.
Johari stressed that only decisions made by the party carry weight, not individual statements, and urged against worsening the situation, noting that some leaders may speak out of emotion.
'Did he? When did he say it? Was it him speaking, or the party? Him? He can't make a statement representing the party. An individual cannot.'
'Even I, along with Datuk Jazlan (Mohamed, often say things that are not aligned with the party, but when the party makes a decision, that's different. This is from an individual, it's different.'
'If it's an individual, everyone wants to talk. But if the party makes a decision, then I will comment. For now, I cannot comment,' he said to reporters after officiating the UMNO Pulai Division meeting at the Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat Complex on Saturday.
Saravanan had earlier expressed frustration in an interview, claiming he and MIC felt misled by BN Chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who allegedly promised Cabinet posts if MIC supported Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as Prime Minister.
He also suggested MIC might reconsider its cooperation with the coalition if it continues to be sidelined.
Meanwhile, MIC President Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran expressed the party's readiness to engage in discussions with any political party to ensure its survival and better serve the Indian community.
Speaking at the 79th Perak MIC Convention yesterday, he said the move prioritises party interests, not external pressure.
'If it benefits the party and the Indian community, I will do whatever is necessary,' he stated. While no formal offers have been received, Vigneswaran remains open to talks. —Aug 3, 2025
Main image: The Vibes
