Former human resources minister M Saravanan has confirmed that he wrote to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim regarding the corruption charges he is facing, but insisted that the letter was not an attempt to seek political protection or a cover-up.
Speaking to reporters at the court complex here, the MIC deputy president said his request was for a thorough review of the case, which he maintained was based on allegations he considered lacking credibility.
“I did not write to the prime minister asking for a cover-up or protection,” Saravanan said after being charged at the Sessions Court this morning.
The Tapah MP, who claimed trial to three counts involving the alleged receipt of RM1.097 million in bribes linked to foreign-worker quota approvals, said he remained confident that he would eventually be acquitted.
He also maintained that the charges had not caused him any embarrassment, saying he believed the court process would ultimately reveal the truth.
“I feel no shame over these charges. When the truth eventually comes out, those who accused me will be the ones left ashamed,” he said.
Saravanan reiterated that he did not know the individuals or companies named in the charge sheet and said he was prepared to cooperate fully with the authorities and the court throughout the proceedings.
He also called for the case to be dealt with without unnecessary delay, saying he wanted the opportunity to clear his name through the judicial process as soon as possible.
The former minister said he believed the eventual trial would also provide the public with greater insight into the circumstances surrounding the allegations and the wider realities of Malaysian politics.
“By the time this trial concludes, the public will have gained a much clearer understanding of the realities of Malaysian politics and its politicians,” he said.
Saravanan’s latest comments came after he was formally charged over allegations involving foreign-worker quota approvals, with the case now set to proceed through the courts.
He has denied wrongdoing and remains entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.
