WASHINGTON, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- A former associate of Jack Abramoff claims the lobbyist contacted presidential adviser Karl Rove to arrange a White House meeting with Malaysian officials.
The government of Malaysia hired Abramoff to help its U.S. image, paying the lobbyist $1.2 million, the unnamed associated told the Los Angeles Times. The associate said he was present when Abramoff contacted Rove four times about a meeting with the Malaysians.
The source would not allow the Times to use his name.
U.S. President George Bush met with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in May 2002 but the White House said the visit was arranged through regular means. A White House spokeswoman told the Times Rove "had no recollection" of discussing the Malaysian meeting with Abramoff.
The former associate told the Times is was not clear how much influence Abramoff had in arranging the Malaysian visit, but added the lobbyist took credit for it.
Abramoff has pleaded guilty to fraud, tax evasion and conspiracy to bribe public officials. He is also cooperating with an investigation into lobbying practices on Capitol Hill.
