.png)
SHAH ALAM – The decision to acquit and discharge Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin of four charges linked to the Jana Wibawa programme could provide political capital for the former prime minister ahead of the Melaka state election.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia political analyst Associate Professor Dr Mazlan Ali said the ruling also gives the Bersatu president some breathing space to ease the pressure he faces and rebuild his political image.
He said the development would allow Muhyiddin to focus on strengthening Bersatu.
“The case he faced was certainly serious. So, when the prosecution decided not to proceed with the charges, it gave Muhyiddin room to focus on politics, and now he wants to strengthen Bersatu again.
“His image can be restored, meaning the public may view Muhyiddin more favourably,” he told Sinar.
On Tuesday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court acquitted and discharged Muhyiddin, who is also the former chairman of Perikatan Nasional (PN), of one charge of using his position to obtain RM200 million in bribes and three money laundering charges under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLA) involving the same amount.
On Tuesday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court acquitted and discharged Muhyiddin, who is also the former chairman of Perikatan Nasional (PN), of one charge of abusing his position for gratification and three charges of money laundering charges under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLA) involving RM200 million.
Elaborating, Mazlan said the decision could also provide political capital for Muhyiddin ahead of the Melaka state election, particularly as integrity is often a key issue used by political parties during campaigns.
“That is certain. Usually, integrity is one of the key issues raised during campaigns.
“During an election, the issue can be used to attack the individual involved and stir public anger over questions about their integrity.
“Now that Muhyiddin has been cleared of those charges, at the very least he can work to restore his image, and the issue can no longer be used against him in the same way,” he added.
