It is interesting to read and hear in the media about the aversion being expressed by Umno delegates who about outrightly reject the idea of receiving money in return for voting for certain candidates standing for the coming party elections.

The impression one gets is that Umno delegates (especially those interviewed) are now against money politics. One wonders where was this same media during the recently concluded general election where the power of money was used so blatantly.

Besides this, the government machinery was wantonly used by all Barisan National candidates. Government spending was stepped on-the-spot up to bribe voters. Promises of grants and allocations were made by ministers and non-ministers alike to fish for votes.

To make matters worse the BN candidates did not even know that the BN campaign materials they were receiving were costing their political party RM100 million. Who cares anyway? It was seen as 'a donation'. Apparently, now no one needs to pay for them because the purchase procedure is held to be tainted.

I hold the view that if money politics is evil for Umno, then it must also be very evil for Malaysia. To stretch the argument a little further, this means that all branch and divisional heads should not accept cash during the general election.

But then these same people expect to receive cash from BN candidates who give willingly to make up for their inadequacies including being an 'absent' people's representative.

In money politics, the usual explanation provided by the recipients of cash is that they need the money to do party work. But is this really so?

If Umno wants to eradicate money politics from its ranks, it cannot afford to doublespeak. It should be consistent in its policy. Therefore money politics should be done away with during all general elections by force of law.

The practise of closing one eye to money politics during Umno elections and opening both eyes for it during general elections should stop. The major players in both elections are the same people.