JOHOR BARU, June 1 — Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi has accused DAP of using government‑linked company (GLC) positions as political bargaining chips, following controversy over a purported offer involving Skudai assemblyman Marina Ibrahim.
Puad claimed the matter came to light when Marina allegedly rejected a proposal to contest the Tiram state seat in exchange for a GLC post. He said DAP had frequently criticised other parties for making political appointments in GLCs, describing such practices as unethical and unprofessional, yet was now guilty of the same.
“DAP is worse. The offer was made even before winning an election. It would be different if an appointment came after the polls, to recognise someone’s position as an assemblyman who was not made an Exco member or minister,” he wrote.
Puad further alleged that Johor DAP chairman Teo Nie Ching’s assurance to Marina demonstrated the party’s influence over Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, adding that similar issues could arise in Selangor and Penang.
He challenged DAP to disclose the names of its assemblymen and leaders — including those without elected positions — who hold GLC posts at federal and state level.