Why is Guan Eng refusing to take leave amid corruption probe?

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Lim Guan Eng Declines Leave Amid Corruption Probe, Citing Political Conspiracy and Precedent

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has stated he sees no reason to take leave while facing a corruption investigation into his house purchase, asserting the allegations are part of a political conspiracy and pointing to precedents where other leaders were not required to take leave during their own investigations. He argues that such a requirement would be politically weaponised and that his administration upholds principles of competency, accountability, and transparency.
Precedents of Leaders Not Taking Leave During Investigations

Lim Guan Eng drew parallels to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who was investigated regarding a substantial sum in his bank account, and the late Kelantan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, who faced a corruption investigation over a sponsored hajj trip. In both instances, these leaders were not compelled to go on leave, suggesting a double standard in the demands made against him. He specifically noted that the case against Nik Abdul Aziz was closed, with the leader absolved of corruption.
Allegations Characterised as Political Conspiracy and Character Assassination

The Penang Chief Minister firmly believes the corruption reports filed against him by Barisan Nasional (BN) and their supporters are fabricated and constitute a conspiracy aimed at character assassination and political destruction. He contends that if a chief minister or mentri besar were to step down for every corruption report lodged, it would become a tool for political sabotage, hindering governance.
Administration's Commitment to Transparency and Open Tenders

Lim Guan Eng highlighted his administration's adherence to "CAT" principles—competency, accountability, and transparency—as evidence of its integrity. He specifically cited the sale of land in Taman Manggis, which has been linked to the controversy surrounding his house purchase, as an example of a process conducted via open tender. This tender, he explained, was awarded to the company that offered the highest price, demonstrating a merit-based selection.
Clarification on House Seller's Involvement

Addressing potential links between his house purchase and the Taman Manggis land sale, Lim Guan Eng clarified that Phang Li Koon, the individual who sold him her house, was neither a shareholder nor a director of the company involved in the Taman Manggis land transaction. This distinction aims to sever any direct connection that could imply impropriety in either transaction.
Offer of Full Cooperation with MACC

The Penang lawmaker has offered his full cooperation to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and urged the agency to expedite its investigation. He expressed hope that the probe would be conducted fairly and independently, thereby preventing the tarnishing of his government's reputation. The investigation was initiated following claims by Umno MP Datuk Shabudin Yahaya, who linked Lim's house purchase to a 2012 land sale in Penang.

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Why is Guan Eng refusing to take leave amid corruption probe?

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