ALOR STAR: Kedah Umno has joined PKR deputy-president Rafizi Ramli in challenging Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor to lodge a report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) regarding his claims of graft involving PKR and DAP members.
According to the Menteri Besar, the graft claims have hindered development plans in Kedah, as members from the two Pakatan Harapan (PH) parties allegedly 'pau' (solicited bribes) from projects, delaying approvals.
State Umno information chief Datuk Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin said that Sanusi needs to act on his claims and not just make empty statements.
"No wonder not a single project has been completed in Kedah. The racetrack remains a dream, Kulim International Airport seems stalled, the RM2.5 billion Tahira project appears to have failed, and the water treatment plant upgrade works are delayed until 2026. (Sanusi) does public announcements like a parrot, and there's no real progress because of these alleged bribes.
"Recently, Sanusi blamed the private sector for failed investments, now he claims PKR and DAP members are demanding bribes. Sanusi is becoming increasingly ridiculous.
"Rafizi suggested Sanusi lodge an MACC report on those that 'pau' him. I also challenge Sanusi to bring this matter to the MACC and bring the culprits to justice. Address this issue properly, don't just make empty statements," he said in a statement today.
Shaiful also advised Sanusi not to deceive the Malay community with fabricated stories.
"Sanusi must prove he is not spreading lies and should act like a responsible leader. If he dares to speak, he should dare to act. Don't let people ridicule your conduct as a Menteri Besar.
"Lodge an MACC report against the wrongdoers because the people of Kedah want to know who is corrupt and why the state is not progressing," he added.
On Sunday, Rafizi challenged Sanusi to lodge a report following the latter's claim of graft involving those in PKR and DAP.
Rafizi said Sanusi, when launching the Perikatan Nasional election machinery on Saturday night, had spoken confidently of his plans for Kedah, making it sound as though Kedah was the most developed state in the world.
He said Sanusi also went on to say that all his plans could not proceed as they were issues with approvals, alleging that there were those in PKR and DAP who solicited bribes for projects.
Rafizi said if Sanusi's claims were true then he should lodge a report with the MACC.
The New Straits Times has reached out to Sanusi for comment since yesterday, however, no response was received at the time of writing.