No proof of politicians accepting bribes to party-hop, says Azam Baki

PUTRAJAYA: There is no proof of bribery in the reports received claiming that politicians were offered money to jump ship, says Tan Sri Azam Baki.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner confirmed to have received reports that money was involved in party-hopping but none could be proven.

"There are just claims and allegations but there is no evidence to prove that political party members were paid to switch camps," he said in an interview.

Azam pointed out that party-hopping is not wrong as there are no laws preventing politicians from doing so.

"So all these acts of jumping ship are not wrong. There are no laws preventing people from doing this," he said

"However, if there is gratification, bribes or money offered for them to switch camp, then that is considered an offence," added Azam.

Azam said it was up to lawmakers to decide if a law to prevent party hopping was necessary.

"When it comes to offering and receiving bribes, there are existing laws under the MACC Act that cover. Action can be taken against those who accept or pay bribes to get members of political parties to leave their party," he said.

On Jan 20, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar had said the proposed new law against switching between political parties was expected to be tabled in Parliament during the coming meeting, which is much earlier than the initial July timeline given.