Bribery Charges Loom for Former Malaysian PM Aide and Businessman

Post by : Mina Rahman

This week, a former political secretary to Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, along with a businessman, will face bribery charges linked to a corruption scandal, as confirmed by authorities.

Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin resigned from his post on November 25. He and businessman Albert Tei, alleged to be involved in corrupt activities concerning Sabah mining projects, are slated to appear before the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court on four counts of accepting and offering bribes. Additional charges are anticipated at the Shah Alam Sessions Court the following day.

Both individuals were arrested on November 28. Another person, Sofia Rini Buyong, who allegedly acted as Shamsul’s proxy, has been detained but will serve as a witness for the prosecution without facing charges. Investigators are also gathering statements from 32 other witnesses related to the case.

Authorities have highlighted that their investigation draws from claims made public through various videos and reports, specifically allegations that Tei transferred RM629,000 (around US$152,215) to Shamsul. This money was reportedly used for home improvements, cigars, and custom suits.

This controversy surfaced just before the Sabah state elections, bringing to light concerns about conflict of interest and political influence. Tei claims that the funds were intended to procure political backing in Sabah, though many details remain uncertain.

Tei and Shamsul are also facing different allegations, including accusations of issuing letters of support for government contracts. Tei has made secret recordings depicting alleged bribery discussions with Sabah state lawmakers, which have resulted in his charges and those of others, who deny these claims, asserting that they stem from revenge motives.

Furthermore, investigators are probing Tei’s lawyer for reportedly refusing to cooperate, while authorities have dismissed allegations of misconduct during his arrest, referencing both video evidence and official statements in defense of their actions.

The unfolding cases in the courts over the next few days are expected to reveal the extent of the alleged corruption.