Premature to discuss Perlis MB replacement amid graft allegations: PAS info chief

PAS leadership urged all parties to allow MACC to complete its investigation before coming to a decision

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari stresses that it is still ‘too early’ to discuss changing the leadership of the Perlis state government. – Alif Omar/Scoop pic, May 5, 2024

KUALA KUBU BAHARU – Discussions about replacing the Perlis Menteri Besar should wait until a thorough investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) concludes, said a PAS leader.

PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari urged all parties to allow the MACC to complete its inquiry before deliberating on the fate of Mohd Shukri Ramli.

“I feel it is still too early to discuss the matter of changing the Perlis government’s leadership.

“This is the era of Madani governance, during which even those called to defend themselves can be given DNAA (discharge not amounting to acquittal) and so on,” the Pasir Mas lawmaker said.

“If we want to discuss the exchange of leadership in the Perlis government, it is still too early.

“So, let’s leave it to the authorities to conduct the investigation.”

Last Thursday, Perlis Bersatu expressed its readiness to assume state administration responsibilities if required. 

However, any decision regarding Shukri’s position lies with the Perlis Ruler and the Perikatan Nasional (PN) leadership.

Speaking to Scoop, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said that Shukri was detained at the commission’s headquarters on April 30 for questioning related to alleged abuse of power in infrastructure development projects across Perlis since 2022.

Azam confirmed that Shukri was detained to assist in the investigation under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009 involving allegations of abuse of power.

The investigation involves the implementation of infrastructure development projects, including repair, maintenance, supply, and services throughout Perlis from 2022.

Shukri, who also serves as the Perlis PAS commissioner and state PN chairman, was released on MACC bail after nearly eight hours of interrogation.

Shukri’s son was also among six individuals remanded by the MACC for alleged forgery of claims documents worth RM600,000.

Prior to Shukri’s arrest, the MACC revealed that it was investigating a senior leader in the northern region suspected of favouring companies linked to him in supply projects valued at RM300,000.” – May 5, 2024