> Subra says his loss was due to money politics

S Subramaniam, who lost in his bid to regain the MIC deputy president's post, attributed vote buying as largely contributing to his defeat.

He said, money was openly given, a minimum of RM300 to each delegate.

"It was very disappointing. I did not expect (the loss)," he told reporters.

Asked whether he would join another party or form a new political party, or what his next move would possibly be, the once long-time deputy president said: "I will take some time to think about it (next move).

Asked to comment on the possible disciplinary action against him as he had been referred to the disciplinary board for making a statement on party elections held in 1977, Subramaniam said he was not bothered about it.

"I will know what to do," he said.

Meanwhile, many of Subramaniam's supporters were in tears. They vented their anger by shouting that money politics was the cause of the defeat and urged him to join other parties.

Another deputy presidential candidate, S Sothinathan, said he accepted the defeat.

"Despite what the prime minister said this morning... delegates made their decision and nothing has changed," he lamented - Malaysiakini.