Umno leaves issue of alleged corrupt assemblymen in MACC hands
KOTA KINABALU: Umno trusts the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in its investigations into alleged corruption involving Sabah assemblymen over the issuance of mineral exploration licenses in the state.
Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said MACC was taking action based on strong information and credible witnesses, while the assemblymen have the right to present evidence in court to clear their names.
"We place our trust in enforcement agencies, especially the MACC, not only to conduct investigations but to gather reliable evidence and witnesses.
"If these two elements exist, then charges can be filed, and we trust the MACC to take the necessary action.
"If an individual has witnesses and evidence to refute the prosecution's case, then they should clear their name in court," he told reporters after opening the Sabah Women Empowerment Programme here today.
Zahid was responding to questions regarding Umno's stance on MACC's move to detain two Sabah assemblymen, who were later released on bail, one last Wednesday and another yesterday.
Also detained was a businessman Datuk who was linked to videos exposing the corruption scandal. He too was later released on bail.
All are expected to be charged by the end of the month, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki had said.
It is understood that one of the assemblymen is a state assistant minister while the other serves as the chairman of a Sabah government-linked company (GLC).
Yesterday, Tanjung Batu assemblyman and Kalabakan member of parliament Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy was reportedly among those called by the MACC to provide a statement in connection with the case.
He is an Umno member who had his membership suspended after defying Sabah Umno's decision to withdraw from cooperation with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in January 2023.
Zahid confirmed that Andi was still suspended.
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