VETERAN unionist Datuk M. Ramachandran is determined to clear his name after he was detained for 48 - hours by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
The 74-year-old remains adamant that he did no wrong after MACC investigators grilled him over his role in the purchase of the "Golden Chariot" which was used in the Thaipusam celebrations over the past few years.
The chariot was conceptualised and made a reality when Ramachandran was the chief executive officer of the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB).
Ramachandran was released on a MACC bond but he has to report to the commission daily until further notice.
Ramachandran said he remains “resolute” despite the stigma of being under detention by MACC.
“I am now more than energised to face what is to come. This is yet another hurdle in my struggle. I’m determined to save the PHEB,” he said.
“This is the cost of fighting dirty politics. When we take on dirty politicians, this is what you get," he added.
Ramachandran is also a special officer to Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
Jagdeep has refrained from any comment.
Ramachandran was a vocal unionist before he joined Jagdeep's predecessor Dr P. Ramasamy in PHEB.
He then had a fallout with Ramasamy and took the board to court over unpaid wages, which he later won the case.
Ramasamy has since quit DAP to form his party called Urimai - the right party last year.
Ramachandran was also in the limelight in 2021 when he was attacked by four men armed with parangs outside his home and he suffered severe injuries from the slashing.
Despite his advanced years, Ramachandran survived and came back to resume his duties with PHEB. - The Vibes, December 6, 2024.
