FT Umno Youth chief Norza to be hauled up to court

KUALA LUMPUR: Federal Territory Umno Youth chief Datuk Norza Zakaria (pic) is expected to be charged today with alleged money politics by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

The former political secretary to Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yaacop is expected to appear before the Temerloh magistrate’s court here.

He will be answering charges that he allegedly paid money to several people to ensure victory in the Umno elections following his qualification to contest a supreme council seat.

Norza, in his 40s, was arrested in January and released on bail pending investigations.

He reportedly denied he was under investigation and claimed he was asked by the commission to assist in its investigation.

He was also reported as saying there was no reason for him to bribe to ensure victory, as he was confident of strong grassroots support based on nominations received from divisions.

The Star had reported in January about the commission questioning Norza following allegations he had paid several people between RM300 and RM500 to ensure victory in the polls.

More than 13 people were arrested and questioned by the commission as they were alleged to have received money from the politician.

Most of those under probe were from Maran and Temerloh.

The commission has since charged three people in Malacca, Perak and the federal capital for similar offences.