KUALA LUMPUR: Several MCA leaders have 'pooh-poohed' the claim by party vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai (pic) that he was a victim of political and character assassination from within the party.

Party Central Committee member Datuk Chong Jit Chew said he did not think there were quarters in the party out to get Liow.

"I do not think there is such a move or motive and I do not even think the case is political," he said.

"If there is such a move and motive, I feel such quarters would go for other leaders rather than Liow and in this case, there are no other leaders being targeted.

"This case is being investigated by the Malaysian Anti- Corruption Commission  (MACC) and has nothing to do with politics.

"MACC acted on information received and I am sure its officers would not just call someone for questioning unless they had information to work on. This has nothing to do with politics.

"Anyway, I feel Liow has nothing to worry if he is innocent. Let the law take its course," he said.

Liow had said on Wednesday he was a victim of political and character assassination by some quarters "who have an ulterior motive in making allegations against me using the issue of a company buying a luxury multi-purpose vehicle for my wife".

He had said the allegations affected not only him but his wife and children.

"If people want to attack me politically, then do it without involving my family," he said.

Puchong MCA division chief and central committee member, Wong Hock Aun, said Liow should just let the MACC complete its investigations.

"I am not one who believes that certain people are out to get him or there is a plot to topple him. I feel Liow should not worry about anything if he is innocent," he said.

Veteran party leader Datuk Yap Pian Hon, who expressed similar sentiments, said Liow should not be worried about the investigation and allegations.

"In politics, we have to face everything — whether they are real or not. If innocent, then there is nothing we should fear.

"Justice will prevail and in this case, let the MACC  complete its investigation," he said.