It's selective prosecution, claims Muhyiddin after Wan Saiful charged in court

KUALA LUMPUR - Bersatu chief Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin claims the court cluster cases involving his party are masterminded by Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said the action were among efforts by Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional to cripple Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional (PN) after its rise in the 15th general election (GE15).

"Today, Bersatu has become a target of selective prosecution. Accepting political funds are suddenly a criminal offence.

"Several Bersatu leaders were accused in court for receiving fund contribution to perform party activities," he said.

Muhyiddin said it is part of selective prosecution as the ruling PH and BN had received contributions from businessmen or from the public.

"However, their leadership has not once been accused in court," he told reporters at the Sessions Court grounds, here, on Tuesday.

Muhyiddin earlier was at Kuala Lumpur court to support Bersatu information chief Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan who is facing charges related to the Jana Wibawa project to empower Bumiputera contractors in the construction sector.

The PN chairman admits he was disappointed as this was the first Bersatu leader brought to court.

"I hope he (Saiful) will get a fair trial and the court will perform what is necessary, insya-Allah we will pray for him to be found not guilty," he said.

The Pagoh MP added each political party needs funds to perform activities.

He said the party constitution allows contributions from members, the public and individuals who support the party's struggles.

"This included the funds received from businessmen and so far, there is no specific law toward political funding in Malaysia and due to that the contribution received by Bersatu was legitimate and not against the law.

"This selective prosecution takes place after PH and BN failed to solve the people's problem. They will likely to be rejected in the state elections in six states to take place soon," he said.

"The court of public opinion will punish PH, BN for their evil intentions to carry out actions in the form of witch hunting and continued selective prosecution of their political opponents."

"I ask Bersatu members to stay calm and not to make any decisions that can threaten public order.