Chua Soi Lek goes for number 2

The following is the Malaysiakini report:

Former MCA vice-president Dr Chua Soi Lek today announced that he will be contesting the post of deputy president in the party elections on Oct 18.

MCPX

The former health minister will now face MCA secretary-general Ong Ka Chuan for the number two post.

This contest is set to be Chua's bid for a political comeback after his resignation from all party and government post early this year over his involvement in a sex-tape scandal.

Previously it was speculated that he would go for the top post but it is learnt that Chua had wanted to avoid a three-cornered fight for the party presidency.

Another former vice-president and former health minister Chua Jui Meng has said that he would contest for the MCA No 1 post, challenging incumbent vice-president Ong Tee Keat.

Incumbent president Ong Ka Ting and deputy president Chan Kong Choy are not seeking a re-election.

Pundits are already describing the upcoming contest for the party leadership as a '2 Os vs 2 Cs' contest, with the Ongs - Tee Keat and Ka Chuan - battling the two Chuas - Jui Meng and Soi Lek.

Party leader Ka Ting has thrown his support behind Tee Keat and elder brother Ka Chuan - both of whom are cabinet ministers - while the two Chuas are seen to as outsiders.

However, as party veterans and former ministers, both Chuas are expected to give the Ongs a tough fight.

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