Former Kedah menteri besar Mukhriz Mahathir has accepted a challenge from his former aide for an open debate over his alleged wealth.

Mukhriz, who is now Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) deputy president proposed that the debate to be held on March 29, reported New Straits Times.

His former aide Haris Che Mat had challenged Mukhriz over allegations that he had amassed billions of ringgit within a short period.

Haris, who is also Pokok Sena Umno division deputy chief, yesterday challenged Mukhriz to reveal how he and his brothers, the children of former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, became instant multi-billionaires.

Mukhriz wanted the debate to be held in Pokok Sena instead of Jerlun as suggested by Haris.

"The truth is, I have been waiting for him to dare me for an open debate so that I will have the opportunity to answer every single allegation he has levelled against me.

"I am also open for the debate to be aired live so that everyone could follow the session instead of waiting for a trial at the court," he said as quoted by the daily today.

"Honestly, I am shocked by his allegations that I have amassed multi-billion ringgit worth of wealth, so I am keen to hear what information that he’s going to reveal because we also have a few secrets about him that we may reveal during the debate," he added.

Mukhriz said he accepted the debate unconditionally, said NST.

"If Haris feels that the date is not suitable, he may propose another date but I hope it will be anytime soon instead of waiting until May," he said.