Suaram denies bribing government officials

HE SAYS, SHE SAYS: Nalini (left) wants JMM to substantiate its allegations while Azwanddin claimed that he received a tip-off.

(NST) – Suuara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) has categorically denied allegations that it had bribed government officials to cover up information on its foreign funding and to gather information related to national security and government secrets from the Prime Minister’s Department, Finance Ministry and the Company Commission of Malaysia (CCM).

In a statement signed by executive director Nalini Elumalai, Suaram wants non-governmental organisation Jaringan Melayu Malaysia, who made the claims, to substantiate its allegations.

Suaram also is demanding an immediate apology and retraction of the allegations.

It was commenting on an allegation by JMM president Azwanddin Hamzah that Suaram had received foreign funding from more than one company.

Azwanddin claimed that he had received a tip-off on this from a former Suaram member, who claimed that Suara Inisiatif Sdn Bhd was not its only financier.

“We understand that a sole proprietorship, Suaram Komunikasi, also pumped in a substantial amount of money to help keep Suaram afloat.”

He added that Suaram allegedly received more than US$100 million (RM305.35 million) to organise street protests and to bribe government officials.

In response, Suaram said: “It is evident from the nonsensical allegations that JMM lacks credibility and pays no respect to the laws of the country.

“Up to this point, Suaram is still being investigated by the CCM and other agencies and had all along provided full cooperation to CCM and other agencies.

“The reason being is that Suaram respects the rule of law and acts in accordance with the requirements of the laws.

“Suaram pledges to fight those who attempt to undermine our dignity and credibility as the leading human rights defender in Malaysia.

“For as long as violations still exist, Suaram will be there with the people, loud and clear.”