MCA: We were not consulted on Annuar’s sacking

Tan Sri Annuar Musa. - filepic

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi did not consult coalition members on the removal of Tan Sri Annuar Musa as the secretary-general, says MCA.

In a statement, MCA said the party has not been able to verify the accuracy of the news despite numerous media organisations reporting on the issue.

“The leadership of MCA is upset after reading reports that Annuar has been removed from his position.

“The central committee only found out from media reports and this matter was never discussed among Barisan component parties. Neither has it been decided at the Barisan supreme council.

“MCA is of the opinion that any appointment has to be made in accordance with the constitution of the coalition and conventionally, the nominations have to be presented and agreed in a consensus, ” it said.

The party said the same procedures also applied to the removal of top office-bearers.

“MCA has yet to receive any notice of a Barisan supreme council meeting. So, no further review on the matter can be made as of now, ” said the statement.

MCA information chief Chan Quin Er said any decision taken should be along the Barisan constitution with the consensus of all component parties.

Lawyer Haniff Khatri Abdulla, when contacted, said as the Barisan constitution only had provisions with regard to the appointment of Barisan office holders, the move was open to interpretation.

“The constitution states that appointment of the secretary-general should be upon consultation of the Barisan supreme council.

“Hence, the appointment or removal of the secretary-general is the prerogative of the Barisan chairman. It would be good to know if the supreme council was consulted, ” he said.