Bung Moktar: Court case won't diminish support for me
"This case has been ongoing for almost six years, and I have won two elections while facing it," he told the New Straits Times.
Bung's court case began on May 3, 2019, when he pleaded not guilty to three charges of accepting bribes amounting to RM2.8 million in return for approving Felcra's investment of RM150 million in Public Mutual unit trust funds.
His wife, Datin Seri Zizie Izette, 45, also pleaded not guilty to three charges of abetting her husband in the matter at the same place, date and time.
In May, the Court of Appeal ordered Bung Moktar and his wife to continue their defence in the graft case.
Last week, he was reported to have dismissed rumours that he would step aside in the upcoming state election, adding that he would continue to defend his Lamag state assembly seat, which he has held since the 2020 state election.
Bung Moktar any attempt to sideline him would jeopardise the party's revival in Sabah.
"I am confident that the truth will ultimately prevail.
"I don't see how my court case can affect the support for me," said the former state deputy chief minister, who has served as member of parliament for Kinabatangan since 1999.
On grassroots support, Bung said that members have been wishing the best for their leaders, as Barisan Nasional has a track record of developing Sabah when in power.
"In politics, it is almost impossible for any leader to gain 100 per cent support; however, grassroots acceptance of Umno-BN is steadily increasing."
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