Four Bersatu MPs backing Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim have been challenged to quit and stand as independents in by-elections to test the people’s support for them.

Bersatu information chief Razali Idris said in Kemaman, Terengganu last night that the four have betrayed their voters and Bersatu grassroots with their move.

"They are smart. They want to be MPs, but not serve their constituents. Should we sack them, they will become independents and no longer have a responsibility towards their constituents.

"They are traitors. Heartless and have no gratitude for the grassroots that helped them get elected," he told reporters after the launch of the Perikatan Nasional election machinery for the upcoming Kemaman by-election.

The by-election will be held on Dec 2 with the nomination process on Nov 18.

Bersatu info chief Razali Idris

Four Bersatu MPs - Mohd Azizi Abu Naim (Gua Musang), Zahari Kechik (Jeli), Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid (Kuala Kangsar) and Suhaili Abd Rahman (Labuan) - pledged support for Anwar over the past month.

This is in exchange for access to RM3 million a year in funds that they can spend on their constituency.

Since they did not quit their respective parties, laws meant to prevent defections did not apply. However, their loyalty to Anwar has yet to be tested as no bloc voting or a vote of confidence has been held yet.

Legal action

Razali said Bersatu will initiate legal action against Zahari and Azizi.

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"In their case, we believe there were inducements... We are considering legal action, including lodging a report with MACC," he added.

Bersatu had already suspended the other two MPs from the party over the matter.

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