BERSATU MP Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan unveiled the identities of two MPs alleged to have attempted to influence his support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government.
The Tasek Gelugor MP disclosed that these two MPs were among the six who had previously pledged their support for Anwar last year.
According to him, the offer presented by one of the MPs, along with two others on Jan 17, included enticing incentives such as a parliamentary allocation of RM2 mil, coverage of his wife’s medical expenses, a token sum for legal fees related to his ongoing court case and the possibility of dropping charges against him.
Wan Saiful further alleged that another MP facilitated an introduction with an individual on Feb 26 in connection with the proposed declaration of support for the government during the debate on His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim King of Malaysia’s address.
“This is an attempt to influence my behaviour. It constitutes harassment, bribery and threats, all of which are unacceptable methods to influence my conduct as an MP,” he said.
In response, Wan Saiful proposed the establishment of a committee under Standing Order 80A to address such misconduct. He referenced Sections 9(d) and 9(e) of the Houses of Parliament (Privileges and Powers) Act 1952, or Act 347, which outline contemptuous actions towards the authority, functions, and privileges of Parliament.
Moreover, Wan Saiful drew inspiration from the late Bukit Gelugor MP Datuk Seri Karpal Singh, who set a precedent by addressing similar issues through parliamentary channels.
Beluran MP Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee supported Wan Saiful’s proposal, citing the establishment of a parliamentary special committee to investigate a scuffle involving Karpal and Selangor UMNO Youth members in 2009.
Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker Datuk Ramli Nor suggested that Wan Saiful draft a motion and forward it to Dewan Rakyat speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul for consideration. – March 21, 2024
