BERSATU should use its elections next month to prove that the party is not like Umno, said the grassroots.

The reminder comes as concerns over money politics gain momentum, with the issue prompting the Bersatu election committee to issue a warning this week, ahead of nomination tomorrow.

“Money politics is an unhealthy culture that has been around for a long time. This culture caused the downfall of the former government,” said Kepala Batas Bersatu chief Azlina Mehtab.

“If it is true that there are Bersatu leaders practising money politics, I will oppose and act firmly.”

The party’s election committee chairman, Syed Hamid Albar, has warned candidates against using money to shore up support in the run-up to the polls slated to begin on February 15.

“One can campaign as per the democratic process, but don’t be extravagant and practise money politics. The higher-ups should not abuse their power. The most important thing is, don’t buy votes.”

Those seeking to stand in the elections are not allowed to sponsor trips such as umrah or golf excursions, he said.

“Not even for trips to nearby destinations like Bangkok, Manila… to play golf.”

A Bersatu youth leader said the remarks by Syed Hamid came as no surprise.

International relations exco Mohd Muzzamil Ismail told The Malaysian Insight that efforts to buy support have been going on since last week.

“I am not surprised by Syed Hamid’s statement. Maybe he has been informed.

“I have seen this taking place. For example, in the form of investments, project promises and others. There are some who promised 18 projects in Sabah.

“What is the difference from Umno?”

He said the dirty campaign is carried out by those in power, including MPs, assemblymen and chairmen of government-linked companies with access to funds.

“They are using their allocations for their own political interest.

“Armada (Bersatu youth) is dilapidated. It was difficult to get allocations over the last two years, but now, they can easily sanction RM10,000 for each division.

“Programmes are approved easily. Then, they say the charity bureau wants to contribute. Where did the money come from?

“Why did they not give the money two years ago? Now that the elections are around the corner, it is easier to get allocations and approvals. This has been going on for the past week. That’s why we are questioning.”

Bersatu chairman Dr Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said the Umno “disease” has infected Pakatan Harapan, causing him to lose confidence in the pact’s next generation of leaders.

However, another youth leader denied that the culture of money politics has taken root in Bersatu, saying his party men are “poor”, unlike Umno’s “wealthy” members.

Education exco Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir said it is too early for a new party like Bersatu to get involved in money politics, adding that he is confident the party’s grassroots are against such practices.

“I am confident that Bersatu is not stupid to use money to buy support. If money politics were to happen, I don’t think it would be now.

“I am not saying that there is no money politics at all in Bersatu. There are attempts, but it has not turned into a cancer.”

The party has set tomorrow for nomination for division and branch candidates.

Meetings and branch elections will be held between February 15 and March 29 using a “one member, one vote” system.

The conference and elections for branches to select central committee members will be held on April 18, employing the voting system previously used by Umno.

The Barisan Nasional lynchpin replaced the system in 2009 to put an end to money politics. – January 25, 2020.