Tiong refutes social media postings of him buying votes
SIBU: The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) candidate for Dudong Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing dismissed rumours circulating in the social media of him using his wealth to buy votes as malicious claims to discredit him.
“There have been rumours that Tiong King Sing has a treasure trove of wealth allowing me to buy votes at RM500 per vote, and even RM1,000 for a single longhouse ‘pintu’. Some people have even said I would throw in a ‘free gift’ – these rumours are now making the rounds on social media.
“Unfortunately, these rumours have caused an uproar among the longhouse communities. Therefore, I wish to stress that I categorically deny these rumours as malicious claims to discredit me for this election,” he said.
Tiong who is Bintulu MP said that he may be compelled to lodge a police report if those spreading the rumours do not take down their postings in the social media.
“I urge them to stop this despicable behaviour immediately, or I will have no choice but to make a police report to intervene.
“It is really meaningless to allow it to devolve to such a stage during an election. We are supposed to work to maintain peace and harmony, instead of sowing division,” he said.
According to Tiong, throughout his career as a fiveterm MP, he never agreed with the practice of buying votes.
“Voters must choose me to support their constituency based on my track record of pragmatic service and sincerity to bring real change to the people. There is no need for me to repeat my achievements in Bintulu, as I believe the people know it. Their votes would also be proof enough of my track record.
“I have also heard that other political parties intend to buy votes. Voters must think carefully before accepting these easy temptations about the type of politicians they want.
“Do they want someone who thinks that money politics will solve anything? Do these politicians really care about bringing development to the place, or are they just in it for personal gain?” he said.
He called on Dudong folk to cast their votes rationally and take actions to eliminate money politics.
He urged them not to give away their votes just for a small, one-off gain.