KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 — In the run-up to the MIC national polls, the contest for seats in the party’s highest decision making body — the central working committee (CWC) — has caught the attention of political observers.

Many of the 88 CWC aspirants have called for changes, claiming the voice of the grassroots will be heard should they be elected.

“This raises the question on what role the CWC will play amidst claims it is controlled by top leaders,” said a political observer who declined to be named.

The contenders seem to share a similar stand on the improvements needed by the Indian community as they furiously profess changes during their campaign rounds,” he said, adding that the CWC was the core of MIC.

A veteran MIC leader, who sat on the CWC for close to two decades, said: “Most of the decisions made are influenced by top party leaders who pressure the members to vote in a predetermined manner,” he said.

“This results in the loss of meaningful policies or opportunities.”

Presently, the CWC faces a monumental task based on calls for amendment to the party’s constitution, changes in policy to attract more members, better education opportunities, economic advancement and other needs.

Datuk R. Ragumoorthy, an incumbent CWC member, claimed that under the leadership of president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, the decision-making process had been transparent.

“We deliberate policies and changes based on what the issues are and their impact on the community and apply the best practices as called for by the grassroots. The time is long gone for any so-called alignment towards any leader,” he said.

Madhu Marimuthu, a four-year CWC member and one of the 88 aspirants, said the leaders could now voicing out grievances without fear or favour.

“The days of yes-men are over,” he said, adding that the party was now more democratic and allowed capable leaders to bring about changes on policies for transformation.

The youngest CWC candidate, S. Sunther, son of former MIC deputy president Tan Sri S. Subramaniam, said there was a stronger commitment now for issues to be raised and the open stand encouraged by Palanivel allows them to be heard.

“Previously, there were cases where these voices were stifled by leaders, with members threatened by suspension as in veteran CWC member K.P. Samy’s case. I do not foresee this happening once the new line-up is formed,” he said.