KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- T

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- The MIC will continue its role as the caretaker of the Indian community, even with the unexpected appointment of a representative from the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) P. Waythamoorthy, said former MIC President Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu, today.
"It is now up to (Hindraf chairman) Waythamoorthy to prove whether Hindraf would deliver on his words and promises to improve the Indian community's economic position," Samy, who is in Bangladesh, told Bernama when contacted today.
He noted that MIC has always been a party that was capable of carrying out any tasks set before it, by fulfilling the community's needs and aspirations.
"If someone says that Waythamoorthy's appointment is going to stop MIC representatives from delivering and working, then that person better commit suicide. Those are baseless and senseless rumours," he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced his new Cabinet in Putrajaya today, in the wake of Barisan Nasional's victory in the just-concluded 13th General Election.
Samy Vellu noted that Waythamoorty's appointment was no different compared to the appointment of other Indian representatives in the Cabinet, adding that Najib would like to give an opportunity to another Indian leader.
Congratulating Najib for setting up a new line-up, he hoped that every leader will bring changes in the government's administration.
"This government must be different. It has to be people-oriented, whereby ministers and deputy ministers must directly connect with the people, so the government and Barisan Nasional will be further strengthened," he said.
As an experienced leader, Samy Vellu said if the leaders should be ready to face challenges, to uphold the peace and harmony, that we enjoyed for the last 55 years.
"I am sure that Najib is really capable to handle this situation. My heartiest congratulations to him," he said.