Kota Kinabalu: Rizal Johari, the personal aide to Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, has strongly denied allegations stemming from a video circulating online, calling it a politically motivated effort to discredit him and other State leaders ahead of the coming State election.
In a statement on Wednesday, Rizal said he “categorically rejects and condemns” what he described as malicious attempts to implicate Sabah’s leadership in scandalous or illegal dealings.
“The latest video is not evidence of wrongdoing, but yet another orchestrated attempt to tarnish the reputation of Sabah’s leadership,” he said.
Rizal noted that such allegations were not new, pointing out that similar claims tend to emerge in the lead-up to elections in Sabah.
“All of this comes as no surprise, particularly when the forthcoming State election is expected to be a history-making event, as Sabahans are determined to decide their own political future and reclaim their rights as an equal partner in Malaysia in line with the spirit of MA63,” he added.
He claimed the video was staged to fabricate a narrative of corruption among State leaders, citing repeated references to alleged cash transactions and supposed meetings with businessman Albert Tei.
“The unauthorised act of recording these alleged meetings with Albert Tei is nothing but a calculated attempt to mislead the public with lies and false accusations ahead of the election, in the hope of benefiting certain political figures vying for power,” Rizal said.
Describing the video as a broader attack on the dignity of Sabahans, Rizal said the people of Sabah have long endured political manipulation and interference.
“These desperate moves by those who fear losing their grip on power will not succeed,” he asserted.
Rizal further questioned Tei’s involvement, suggesting the businessman was not acting alone.
“The arrogance and brazenness of Albert in releasing these videos reinforces suspicion that he is acting under the orders, instruction, or protection of powerful individuals. The real question is: Who stands behind him? Whoever they are, let it be clear they are the true enemies of Sabah and our people,” he said.
He warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent that could undermine democracy and the rule of law.
Nevertheless, Rizal expressed confidence that Sabahans would not be easily swayed by political propaganda.
“We have seen these dirty tricks before. Sabahans are not easily manipulated. We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced,” he said.
He also affirmed his full confidence in the legal system and pledged to pursue all necessary avenues to ensure the truth prevails.
“No amount of character assassination, incrimination or trial by media will distract me from my duty to serve the people with honesty and integrity,” he said.
Rizal concluded by stating that the allegations were not just personal attacks, but an insult to all Sabahans.
“These attempts to mislead the public are a direct attack not only on me, but on every Sabahan. We will not be intimidated, and we will not be silenced,” he reiterated.