KUALA KUBU BAHARU – Trading barbs and the constant mud-slinging by politicians will not help uplift the Indian community here, but will only serve to reveal the former’s vested interests, said former Klang MP Charles Santiago.
Santiago, who is a DAP man, said leaders who often froth at the mouth do not have the interest of the Indian community at heart, which is why issues remain unresolved even after six decades of the nation’s independence.
He also warned that voters would not be as forgiving as they were before, even though Pakatan Harapan (PH) might secure victory “this time around”.
“Policies must reflect the aspirations of affected communities. In Kuala Kubu Baharu, we have long-standing housing issues, with one Tamil school sheltering abandoned kids.
“How many of those (politicians) screaming at the top of their lungs have visited the people and kids? I forgot, (it is) easier to be keyboard warriors,” he said sarcastically.
Directing his criticism to all, he said the Indian community here would not trust them if they visit now while promising “the moon and the sun” during the election campaign.
Instead, he urged the leaders to listen to the community, and formulate better strategies to mitigate their issues.
The ongoing spat between leaders began when United for the Rights of Malaysians Party (Urimal) chairman P. Ramasamy called on Kuala Kubu Baharu voters to reject PH, claiming the coalition had failed to fulfil its promises.
Ramasamy, who quit DAP last year, was met with criticism from government lawmakers, including Communication Minister and PKR information chief Fahmi Fadzil, who suggested that Ramasamy “lacked affection” and should consider joining Perikatan Nasional.
In response, Ramasamy said he did not need affection but urged for the fair treatment of Indians and other deserving Malaysians.
Today, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said Ramasamy was “directionless” and his efforts were motivated by his vindictiveness for not being chosen as a candidate in the Penang polls last year.
Separately, DAP’s R.S.N. Rayer said politics was about loyalty and principles, not selfish personal interests, and thanked former rivals Umno and MIC for their support.
PKR deputy information chief I Datuk R. Ramanan held Ramasamy accountable for the fate of the people in Kuala Kubu Baharu, particularly the Indian community, if support was not given to the ruling party’s candidate.
PH has helmed the Selangor legislative assembly since 2008.
Meanwhile, DAP wrested Kuala Kubu Baharu from MCA in 2013, and defended the state seat since.
The seat was left vacant this year following the death of assemblywoman Lee Kee Hiong of DAP in March due to ovarian cancer. – May 1, 2024