Immediately probe claims of money politics, MACC told

KOTA KINABALU – Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador’s statement on corruption in politics has strengthened Warisan Plus’ previous claims of money politics in Sabah, said the state’s opposition Youth leaders.

Sabah DAP Youth chief Phoong Jin Zhe said the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must initiate immediate investigations, as there has yet to be any result from previously lodged reports.

“Before the state polls was held on September 26 last year, Sabah DAP exposed that agents had met our elected representatives to offer assets, money and positions, and asked them to defect.

“I was personally offered money and position, but stood firm against these lures and remained loyal to my party, DAP, and coalition, Warisan Plus.”

All my colleagues were offered incentives by different “agents” from the previous opposition camp, he added.

“There is someone behind all this, but MACC seems reluctant to act despite the numerous reports lodged by us and coalition members.”

Phoong also seconded the proposal by DAP national organising secretary Anthony Loke to establish a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the matter to safeguard the credibility of the police force.

Warisan Youth chief Datuk Azis Jamman also called for immediate investigations, as there are cases where politicians are offered money, and even threatened, in the state.

“They were threatened by other government departments, like MACC and the Inland Revenue Board (IRB).

“Remember one representative who was stalked by strangers at his home until he lodged a report? Not long after, his house was visited by the IRB.”

Azis said Sabahans were shocked when former chief minister Tan Sri Musa Aman was released from 42 charges without trial, and urged the case to be reinvestigated.

“Soon after (Musa’s release), there was a big movement rumoured to be led by Musa making offers to Warisan, PKR and DAP representatives in Sabah.”

Those approached by “agents” have lodged reports, but no action has been taken to date, he said.

Azis said he agrees with Hamid that enforcement agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police, must be led by someone who is free from political influence and pressure, and must not be used as a political tool by the governing party. – The Vibes, May 1, 2021