PADANG TERAP: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor today said law enforcement agencies should not to be used as a tool in running down those who belonged to different political divide from the unity government.
Sanusi, who is also Kedah Football Association (KFA) president made the call in lashing out at the arrest of the body's chief executive officer and three others by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for allegedly soliciting and receiving bribes amounting to RM6 million on Friday.
"l understand there's a series of plots to use public agencies for personal gain, to satisfy their (unity government leaders) personal agenda, targeting those who don't align with them.
"I want to advise government agencies to not act as 'barua' (lackey) to these quarters. 'Barua' is a Kedah slang," he said during a press conference after opening the district-level Kedah 2035 Publicity and Public Engagement on Local Planning Draft here today.
He also advised journalists not to act as lapdogs for certain parties, stressing that such behaviour is an act of oppression.
"Where did you (reporters) get the information? The MACC provided it? They are oppressive, and you're equally oppressive. Write responsibly, accusing people without evidence is unfair.
"You have sensationalised the issue, and make Kedah look bad, spreading corruption allegations without proper basis. You've become lapdogs for them too, don't think I won't get angry," he added.
Meanwhile, Sanusi stressed that KFA has funded its football team and activities through donations and contributions since its establishment, as it is a non-profit organisation.
"Money goes into KFA's account as a donation. Since its establishment 100 years ago in 1924, KFA has been financed through donations from the government, private sector, NGOs, and sports enthusiasts.
"If money enters KFA's account, what's wrong with that? Where is the corruption element in this? he added.
Yesterday, Sanusi pledged to unveil the plot behind the move to remand KFA CEO over an alleged corruption case.
On Friday, it was reported that the MACC had remanded KFA CEO Zulkifli Che Haron, and three individuals, including two consultants aged between 40 and 60 years, to assist in the investigation of a case involving solicitation and acceptance of bribes amounting to RM6 million.
The alleged corrupt funds were believed to be a reward for helping a company owner secure construction project tenders for a racecourse and projects to manage, operate, and maintain five water retention facilities in Kedah.