By Adib Zalkapli
KOTA BAHRU, Nov 15 — The CEO of Kelantan Mentri Besar Corporation (PMBK) Ariffahmi Abdul Rahman today dismissed allegations by his former corporate liaison officer, Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz, that he is a Machang Umno member.
“Somebody registered my name without my knowledge a long time ago, I have never seen or signed the application form, I am a PAS life member,” Ariffahmi told The Malaysian Insider.
He added that he was also an involved Islamist activist when he was a student at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in the 1990s.
Ariffahmi joined PAS in 1997 and his highest position in the party was as Machang division committee member.
Earlier today Syed Azidi, who was sacked from the state government investment arm last week, claimed that Ariffahmi and all his family members are Umno supporters.
He also alleged that Ariffahmi had attempted to topple party president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang by telling the then-Youth chief Salahuddin Ayub that the plan was supported by Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.
“Ariffahmi claimed that Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz wants Ustaz Hadi to step down and be replaced with his political son, Husam Musa, as PAS president,” said Syed Azidi in his blog posting.
“Ariffahmi directed Salahuddin who the Youth chief to use the movement’s machinery to topple Ustaz Hadi,” he added.
Syed Azidi said he and Salahuddin were sceptical that the plan to topple Hadi had really come from Nik Aziz.
“After two or three meetings, both I and Salahuddin agreed that Ariffahmi was out of his mind and the idea will not only end Husam’s political career but will also split the party,” said Syed Azidi.
“That is not true. He is trying to drive a wedge between me, ‘ayahanda’ and Ustaz Hadi,” said Ariffahmi in response to Syed Azidi’s allegation.
Ariffahmi, who was appointed PMBK CEO two months ago, is currently under Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigation for alleged abuse of power and Syed Azidi’s dismissal is said to be related to the investigations.
Ariffahmi, however, insisted that the sacking had nothing to do with the MACC probe.
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somebody (unknown) paid for me without fail. In early '92, I sent a letter of resignation. I was told in '99
I was still a member.
I dont bother to check whether i am one of the 3 million umno members.
The point is; you can be an umno member without realising it.