The Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) is expected to quiz two senior Sarawak politicians and a corporate figure in relation to the accusation by Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS) president Daniel Tajem that he was offered a RM2 million bribe.

Tajem met with ACA senior officers yesterday after a national newspaper quoted him as saying that he was offered the bribe in order not to contest in last year's party elections.

The money was allegedly offered at a Japanese restaurant in Kuching on April 4, 2003 in the presence of a witness, described as a senior member of the local banking industry.

According to sources, the witness went to the ACA office today to give his statement. He was said to be 'more than willing' to back Tajem's claim.

The sources said the money was offered by a well-known corporate leader, who acted as the 'messenger'.

"The RM2 million was only part of the package. There was something about Tajem's son, a lawyer, being considered for a political secretary post as well," they added.

Four attempts

According to the New Straits Times report, there were allegedly four attempts to bribe Tajem, a lawyer by training. The other attempts were said to have taken place at his law firm in Tabuan Jaya.

Yesterday, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Radzi Sheikh Ahmad said Tajem should give a more detailed statement such as naming those who offered the bribe to the authorities.

Radzi, who is the new Barisan Nasional secretary-general, was in Sarawak to meet Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud.

He said it was a 'courtesy call' and denied that the duo discussed about the problem plagued PBDS. The party has been embroiled in a protracted leadership tussle.

Radzi also confirmed reports that he is the new chairperson for PBDS credentials committee that will oversee the party elections in October.