In an about turn, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (Keadilan) former Youth secretary Lokman Nor Adam today retracted his allegations on mismanagement of party funds he made three days ago.

Lokman said in a statement that he made his decision after hearing the detailed explanation from the Keadilan top leadership on the allegations that he had made during the supreme council meeting on Wednesday.

"I am sure that some of the information (on alleged financial irregularities) that I received was untrue and came from sources attempting to create disunity within the party. I hereby, retract all the allegations that I had made earlier," he said.

He also stressed that the decision was made voluntarily and in the best interest of the party.

"I also hope that the media - especially those who had reported the allegations I had made- to also report this withdrawal as I will not be responsible in the event a civil suit is filed against any party relating to the allegations that I am now retracting," he said.

He said he would continue to serve the party in preparing for the forthcoming general election, and to participate in all activities organised by the Youth movement and Free Anwar movement .

Lokman had been Youth secretary until Monday when the wing's leader Mohd Ezam Mohd Nor sacked him for allegedly urging party members to defect to Umno - an allegation which he had repeatedly denied.

Ezam's decision was affirmed by the supreme council which also suspended Lokman as supreme council member pending investigation by an independent committee.

Report retraction too

Meanwhile, Ezam said he is relieved and hoped that the mainstream media will also report the retraction following the negative reports on the allegations.

"I will not hesitate to take action against those who refuse to report Lokman's retraction," he added when contacted.

As for Lokman's pledge to continue serving the party and the Youth wing, Ezam said he would comment only after he has read Lokman's retraction statement.

"I have heard from friends that Lokman had regretted his actions and wanted to make amends. I will have to discuss with other Youth leaders and the party leadership as to whether the retraction would change Lokman's present position in the party," he added.