KUALA LUMPUR: Indian voters are ready to support Perikatan Nasional (PN), a trend that began in last year's six state elections, claims former DAP leader P. Ramasamy.
In a Facebook post, the former Penang deputy chief minister said even MIC, which backs the unity government, cannot stop the shift of Indian votes to the opposition.
Ramasamy said the rising Indian support was not due to the community being attracted to PN but their "disappointment" in the unity government.
"The so-called multi-racial political parties have been a big disappointment for Indians.
"There is a growing realisation that the phoney concept means nothing to the progress and advancement of the community," he claimed.
He said Indians continued to face racial discrimination and marginalisation, and voiced doubt that the government could change the fate of the community.
"Indians are prepared to support the opposition even though they have not been assured that things will be better if there is a change of government in the future.
"In short, Indians have nothing to gain under the present government, but there is a possibility things might be brighter under the opposition-led government.
He said the coming Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election could serve as a "litmus test" for Indian support for PN.
"If the opposition can obtain half of the 18 per cent of Indian voters, victory might be snatched away from the PH-led government."
The Kuala Kubu Baharu by election was triggered following the passing of its incumbent Lee Kee Hiong on March 21.
The Election Commission will fix a date for the by-election on April 4.
