Penampang MP Darell Leiking has denied claims that he paid or received RM5 million to leave PKR.

“I deny each and every allegation and I challenge the rumour monger to show proof and evidence of the same,” said Leiking to Malaysiakini.

Leiking, yesterday, quit PKR to team up with former Umno vice-president Shafie Apdal in an anti-BN “Sabah platform”.

Referring to this, the lawmaker pointed out how he had formed the party with Shafie and as such wondered how such lies could be spread.

“I challenge Sayangsabah.com to show proof and be ready to explain (the matter),” he added.

The portal had quoted former PKR leader Badrul Hisham Shaharin, who had, in a Facebook post yesterday, pointed out how PKR once stated that both its members of parliamentarians and state assemblypersons would have to pay RM5 million if they leave the party.

“Today another has jumped ship. How much has PKR collected since the 13th general election?” Badrul Hisham, better known as Chegubard queried.

In his post, Chegubard had attached a 2013 Malaysiakini article quoting then PKR deputy secretary-general Steven Choong on the matter.

"After receiving the appointment letter, if any candidate withdraws before nomination (day) or jumps ship (after they have been elected), they have to compensate RM5 million to the party,” Choong was reported to have said.

Asked on this, Leiking however said only the party could answer this.

Citing his resignation letter addressed to PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, he instead pointed out how he had explained of leaving the party amicably.

Following his decision, Wan Azizah had said that the party accepts his decision based on his commitment that they still stand together against Barisan Nasional.