In a statement, Anwar said he had accepted Shamsul’s resignation as his senior political secretary and thanked him for his service over the past three years.

“Concerning the allegations that have surfaced, I maintain that MACC is free to conduct immediate investigations without external interference.

“The Madani government holds fast to the principles of transparency and integrity, as well as giving room for the investigation process to be held according to the law,” he said.

Shamsul announced his resignation as Anwar’s senior aide yesterday, citing attempts to attack him through controversies which he said could have a negative impact on the government’s image.

The Melaka PKR chief had drawn backlash for penning a letter of support for a hospital project, which also earned him a reprimand by Anwar as government regulations do not permit the issuance of such letters.

Shortly after his resignation, Malaysiakini quoted controversial businessman Albert Tei as claiming he had spent RM629,000 on Shamsul, including on renovations for properties linked to the PKR man, as well as premium cigars and custom suits.

Tei was charged in June with two counts of giving bribes to two assemblymen involving the Sabah mining scandal.

Perikatan Nasional has called for MACC to probe Shamsul for corruption and abuse of power over Tei’s allegations and his letter of support.