According to sources, one vice-presidential candidate for the 2021-2024 term is said to have promised RM1,000 to each of the 140 divisions and others are offering half the amount.

“These are in addition to a laptop promised to each division head,” said one source.

“One candidate has even delivered cakes to all division chairmen, who normally have a strong influence on how delegates vote.

“The Covid-19 SOPs have made it tough for direct campaigning like in the past, when candidates used to throw lavish parties. This time, it is mainly done through social media. There are cash gifts and online delivery of gifts.”

The election will be held today from 4pm to 7pm. An estimated 24,000 delegates are expected to cast their votes for the six candidates in the race for the three vice-presidential posts and the 60 vying for the 21 central working committee (CWC) seats.

In addition, the delegates will pick 10 committee members for each state, following which the party president will appoint the state chairmen.

The three incumbent veeps who will be defending their positions are T Mohan, C Sivarraajh and T Murugiah. Their challengers are current secretary-general M Asojan, executive secretary AK Ramalingam and information chief V Gunalan.

Incumbent president SA Vigneswaran was returned unopposed when nominations were called for the top post in September as did the deputy president on Nov 19 when nominations closed.

The party chief has warned contestants against using caste when canvassing for votes, but one leader said many had disobeyed him in private Whatsapp messages.

“It is expected to have some bearing in the outcome for certain candidates,” said the leader.

Another source said the party president had his preferred list of top leaders and most were expected to sail through.

He said the president even told one of his ardent supporters to win a state committee seat so he could be appointed as state chairman to strengthen his hold on the party.

The results are expected to be announced after 10pm.