PKR POLLS | Incumbent PKR vice-president Rafizi Ramli says party members should reject candidates in its internal election who practise the culture of money politics, adding that they need to be aware that this is what caused the downfall of Umno.
"Now we are in a position to be tested with money politics, because there will be parties offering money because when we become the government, many quarters with money will be interested in the government party.
"Our responsibility is to educate young members to reject this culture, reject people who offer money and instead choose people who are fair, serve and fight for the grassroots," the deputy presidential candidate was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Speaking at an event in Seremban, Rafizi said among the main reasons he made the decision to run for PKR deputy president was to prevent money politics from spreading within the party.
He also advised the Negeri Sembilan PKR candidates to be prepared for any outside provocations.
Berita Harian, meanwhile, quoted Rafizi as saying that money politics was prevalent in six states where the party elections had taken place so far.
"There is something that makes me go through sleepless nights. Next week (coming Saturday), you all will compete in the division level in an environment never seen before... with money strewn all over the place.
"There will be quarters who will offer between RM100,000 and RM200,000 to the divisions. There are states where voters are given RM100 for a vote.
"I'm mentioning this early so it doesn't shock you when it happens," he said, adding that there are also those being promised projects in return for votes.
According to Rafizi, PKR members who are easily influenced by the money politics culture are those who did not go through "tough times" with the party, and the "youngsters" who joined the party with thick pockets.
He also cautioned his supporters to be wary of provocation from "outsiders" who could resort to triggering chaos if the results of the poll do not go in their favour.
Rafizi is facing incumbent PKR deputy president cum Economic Affairs Minister Mohamed Azmin Ali, for the party's number two post.
