‘Weak link’ saved Khairy

(NST) – Umno Youth chief aspirant Khairy Jamaluddin was not barred from contesting due to the "weak link" between him and his agent in an alleged money politics case.

Umno online quoted Umno legal adviser Datuk Hafarizam Harun as saying that the "links" in the two cases involving Umno deputy president aspirant Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam and Khairy with their respective agents or lobbyists were the determining factor taken into consideration by the Umno disciplinary board.

It said action taken against the two had created confusion among party members as the offences were similar in nature.

The disciplinary board had barred Ali from contesting while Khairy was issued a warning.

Hafarizam, who is also a disciplinary board member, was quoted as saying that Khairy could contest as the link between him and his lobbyist or agent, who is Sabah Youth head, was weak.

Ali, however, had a direct link with his agent, who is his political secretary.

The website said the board's decision proved that Umno did not practise double standard or favouritism. It stated that the action put to rest claims that those contesting top party posts had immunity and were untouchable.

It also proved the seriousness of the board in tackling indiscipline.