The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has been urged to act against allegations of money politics in the Umno polls and not shirk from its responsibilities by claiming it is an internal party matter.

"There are laws against all forms of corruption and at all levels of society, be it involving party politics of any political groups, the civil servants or even the private sector.

NONE"If MACC is serious in its anti-corruption drive, it must keep a vigilant watch over the coming Umno elections," said Transparency International-Malaysia president Akhbar Satar.

Akhbar said whether the MACC dares to take action against a political party in the ruling coalition is an acid test for the graft buster.

He cited an example of of Kelantan Umno liaison chief Mustapa Mohamed openly lamenting that money politics was still prevalent in the party.

'Umno must act'

Akhbar also urged Umno it take a tougher stance against instances of money politics.

"The Umno Supreme Council can no longer pretend that money politics is an internal issue that can only be dealt with by the disciplinary committee.

"People who are found guilty of playing money politics should also be expelled permanently from the party," he said.

He warned that if action was not taken to curb money politics in Umno, leaders would be able to buy their way to power and they would eventually also become the country's leaders.

"Corrupted politicians who rule the country will continue to 'close an eye' to the huge wastage that we see recently in the auditor-general's recent report," he said.