THE sacking of two PKR members last weekend did not follow due process and must be retracted, said Chua Tian Chang.

The party vice-president, better known as Tian Chua, said Zakaria Abdul Hamid and Ismail Dulhadi, who were dismissed over alleged corruption and bribery in last year’s PKR polls, were not given a chance to defend themselves.

“To expel a party member is a very serious matter, especially if the action is taken against a veteran activist who is also an elected central leadership council member,” he said in a statement today.

“It is unacceptable that anyone could be sacked without prior notice, and without being given an opportunity to defend themselves.”

He said the decision to boot Zakaria and Ismail over the purported infractions was rushed through.

On Sunday, PKR announced the sacking of central committee member Zakaria and Pahang member Ismail with immediate effect.

Zakaria, who is also Bera division chief, allegedly offered contracts worth RM20,000 and funding of at least RM300,000 at a meeting with local leaders on September 1, 2018 when running for a seat in the PKR central leadership council.

It was reported that the disciplinary body made the move based on a Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission letter.

“We were told that the disciplinary board ‘just’ received a note from MACC. If so, why couldn’t the board allow a proper duration for a thorough discussion and investigation?” said Chua.

“As it stands, (the board’s) action can also be read as improperly hasty and targeted, without the due process of notifying members of its intention and giving the accused a chance to speak about the charges.”

He reminded the disciplinary board that PKR was established to oppose the wrongful dismissal of Anwar Ibrahim as deputy prime minister in 1998.

“As a party founded upon the movement for reform and justice, it is rather unfortunate that such heavy-handed action has been employed.”

He said party president Anwar would prefer punishments that are less harsh, such as a suspension or show-cause letter.

“I believe Anwar would have adopted a level-headed and conciliatory approach to resolve tussles within the party.” – November 26, 2019.