Supporters add to festivities at MCA HQ

All three MCA president hopefuls today feted supporters to lunch before proceeding to the party headquarters to file their nomination papers.

The biggest gathering among them were organised by Ong Ka Ting's supporters at a hotel in Berjaya Times Square. Some 1,000 supporters were present.

Among those present were leaders from Liow Tiong Lai's faction, including Wanita chief Chew Mei Fun and Youth chief Wee Ka Siong.

"Ka Ting is risking everything. We cannot disappoint him," said Chew, adding that a Ka Ting - Liow combination was the best solution for the party.

When Ka Ting and Liow appeared at about 12.30pm, the masses chanted "Only Ka Ting can stabilise MCA, we strongly support Ka Ting and Liow".

Over at a Hakka restaurant near the party headquarters, incumbent MCA president Ong Tee Keat was in the company of some 300 supporters.

Tee Keat's troops drowns out rivals

Later, his supporters display a large banner outside the party headquarters which reads: "Don't let Tee Keat suffer because of PKFZ".

By far, Tee Keat's supporters are the vocal among all and are chanting "Ong Tee Keat!" repeatedly whenever leaders from rival factions arrive at the headquarters.

The enthusiasm level of supporters of other leaders were pale in comparison.

Meanwhile, hot favourites Dr Chua Soi Lek treated 70 of his supporters to a curry fish-head lunch before proceeding to the party headquarters nearby.

Among others, former vice-president Dr Ng Yen Yen were among those present at Chua's luncheon to lend support.

By 2.05pm, Chua was the first candidate to file his nomination papers.

At 4.25pm, the nominations the top posts are as follows:

PRESIDENT
1. Dr Chua Soi Lek
2. Ong Ka Ting
3. Ong Tee Keat

DEPUTY PRESIDENT
1. Kong Cho Ha
2. Liow Tiong Lai

VICE-PRESIDENT
1. Edward Khoo Keok Hai
2. Dr Ng Yen Yen
3. Loke Yuen Yow
4. Donald Lim Siang Chai
5. Yeow Chai Thiam
6. Chor Chee Heung

[More to follow]