Jeffrey denies mining scandal allegations, vows legal action

Borneo Post

17 hours ago

Jeffrey
KOTA KINABALU (June 29): STAR President Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Gapari Kitingan vehemently denies allegations published by Malaysiakini accusing him of receiving RM1.78 million in connection with a purported mining scandal.
He asserts that these accusations are completely unfounded and represents a politically motivated attack designed to destabilize, demonise and demolish the current Sabah government.
Jeffrey emphasizes that he has never, ever, received any funds related to the mining applications or any alleged scandal. The accusations are a deliberate fabrication orchestrated by desperate political actors seeking to exert undue influence on Sabah politics, a tactic historically employed since the 1960s.
The STAR party categorically denies any involvement in mining activities, clarifying that it has never applied for any mining licenses. As proponents of the Nature Conservation Agreement (NCA), the party maintains that mining is inherently incompatible with its conservation principles, he said in a statement issued by STAR information chief Mohd Anuar Tan Sri Ghani Gilong on Sunday.
Jeffrey further states that both he and other members of his party have cooperated fully with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) in their investigation, providing detailed statements. He condemns the media's attempt to try the case through public opinion instead of following proper legal channels. This is the price you pay for fighting for Sabah rights.
He also notes that previous statements made by the whistleblower have exonerated both STAR and PBS of any wrongdoing or receipt of corrupt funds.
Given the severity of these false and malicious accusations, Jeffrey reserves the right to pursue all available legal avenues, including legal action against Malaysiakini for its irresponsible and damaging reporting.
'We expect more false and slanderous allegations to come out of the mouth of Malaysiakini and other political manipulators,' he said.
It is anticipated that many more libellous and false accusations will surface leading up to the election. It is not surprising that certain groups and parties will exploit on this, hoping that this fake news will alter the dynamics and political landscape in Sabah.
Jeffrey, who is Deputy Chief Minister I, is one of the six more politicians in Sabah accused of involvement in the mining licence scandal by the news portal.
The portal claimed that a source who spoke on condition of anonymity has provided them with screenshots allegedly taken from a video recording involving the political leaders, with the total amount of alleged bribery involving RM3.96 million between the six individuals.
In addition to the video evidence, the source claimed that WhatsApp messages and other documents exist to support the transactions.
With the latest development, 15 politicians have been implicated in corrupt activities between 2023 and 2024, allegedly in exchange for assistance in processing mineral exploration licence applications.