Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today urged that due process be upheld in the ongoing corruption probe against former economy minister Rafizi Ramli and asked the public to refrain from making hasty allegations.
Speaking to reporters at Masjid Kampung Seri Cheeding, Kuala Langat today, the premier said any allegation of misconduct must be handled consistently and fairly, regardless of who is involved.
“Before the investigation and prosecution are completed, we should not pass judgement. For now, we should allow space for investigations to be carried out and refrain from making accusations.
“In this blessed month of Ramadan, we should do what is best. If there are allegations, investigate them properly. If there is evidence of wrongdoing, then prosecute.
“But do not publicise or condemn someone beforehand,” he added.
Anwar maintained that he welcomes scrutiny, including of the government and other parties, but only if it is backed by evidence, not mere accusations.
“That is why I welcome any allegation, whether it involves the government or anyone else. If there is an allegation supported by evidence, we investigate it transparently. Only then can the country function in an orderly manner.
“But during the month of Ramadan, we should focus on worship, forgiveness, and strengthening ties with one another,” he said.
Anwar’s remark came amid controversy surrounding MACC probes linked to Rafizi’s tenure as economy minister.
Two separate cases
Currently, the former PKR deputy president is being investigated for two separate cases. The first involves a government deal with British semiconductor giant Arm Holdings, where he is accused of rushing through an agreement that allegedly cost RM1.1 billion.
The second allegation concerns a large solar energy project by UEM Lestra, in which he is accused of steering a contract worth RM2.5 billion to a company with ties to him.
Rafizi has denied any wrongdoing and described the allegations as exaggerated and politically motivated.
He argued that the timing of the MACC probe against him is a form of intimidation following his call for the suspension of MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki in response to allegations reported by Bloomberg.
The Pandan MP also criticised what he described as a smear campaign by local influencer and rapper Ariz Ramli, better known as Caprice, and has threatened legal action against the defamatory statements.
"Unlike other cases, MACC has produced no evidence whatsoever. There has been no seizure of hundreds of millions, no gold bars. There is no evidence of hundreds of millions parked in my accounts.
“Not a single shred of evidence exists, yet all of this is being zealously hawked as headline news.
“This is what happens when desperate parties resort to slander," he said on Facebook yesterday. - Mkini
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