KUALA LUMPUR: Gerakan today welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's statement that the ties between Umno and Gerakan were not affected by the personal attack on Umno by Gerakan Youth vice-chairman S. Paranjothy.

"The unity and co-operation among Barisan Nasional component parties are of utmost importance as well as of highest priority to the BN in facing the coming general election," said Gerakan secretary-general Datuk Seri Chia Kwang Chye.

Gerakan would handle the matter accordingly, he said in a brief statement.

Paranjothy was reported to have issued a press statement claiming that he was not happy with Umno and the way Indians in the country were being treated.

Following that, Gerakan had initiated disciplinary proceedings against Paranjothy by referring him to the party's Disciplinary Committee as his remark was regarded as out of line.
He faces the possibility of suspension or expulsion from the party.

Najib, who is also the deputy BN chairman, when asked to comment on Paranjothy's statement yesterday, said it had not affected the relationship between Umno and Gerakan. -- Bernama