Hundreds took to the streets in Kuala Lumpur today with a resounding call for the resignation and arrest of MACC chairperson Azam Baki.
This follows the shareholding scandal and allegations that MACC officers colluded with private individuals to strong-arm business rivals and abetted corporate takeovers, as exposed by Bloomberg.
Apart from Azam, the crowd that started gathering outside the Sogo shopping complex also targeted Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for recent statements, which they claimed defended Azam against calls to step down pending independent investigations.
As the crowd built up at around 4pm, a uniformed police officer approached organisers from the youth-led movement Mandiri with instructions to move several hundred metres away to avoid obstructing shoppers preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year and Ramadan festivities.
From the back of a pick-up truck, several MPs joined civil society representatives to address protesters and curious passersby.
Rafizi warns of more protests
Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli warned the government of more protests if no action is taken against Azam.
The former economy minister said the rally today was merely to test the government’s response to the allegations.
“If the government still refuses to suspend Azam and refuses to conduct an independent and transparent investigation, then we have no choice but to take to the streets again and again until he steps down,” he said.
The former PKR deputy president also reminded Anwar that he had, as opposition leader in 2022, backed a call for Azam to step down, and so the people today have a legitimate expectation for a similar stance and action.
Rafizi also noted that Anwar, as PKR president, had taken a swipe at “whiny” party members with no productive contribution.
“To Anwar, we (PKR members) are whining and complaining only because we love the country… so that when the people are mad at you, you will not also fall with him,” he said.
Bersih chief Faisal Abdul Aziz echoed Rafizi’s warning of a larger protest, hinting at a possible Bersih 6.
“This is a warning from the people. We do not want any more corruption - especially when it involves Azam,” he said, recalling the 2022 protest with the same call for Azam’s resignation, also linked to a shareholding scandal.
Look at other related allegations
Subang MP Wong Chen said the government committee investigating Azam’s shareholdings should also look at other related allegations.
“Azam said he has already sold the shares, but he lost RM400,000 and appears completely unfazed about it.
“So tell the public now - what are your current assets? I dare you. What car do you own? What house? How many wives do you have?” asked Wong.
Earlier today, Azam said he will give his full cooperation to the government committee investigating his shareholdings.
He said he has nothing to hide and will provide the committee with any documents needed
Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad reminded Anwar of the past major protests in the last two decades, including his own reformasi movement.
“Twenty years ago, we gathered to fight injustice. Ten years ago, it was 1MDB.
“Today, it’s the same. We do not want people siphoning off the country’s money,” he said, adding the only way forward is to ensure MACC’s independence.
Justice in enforcement
Following the speeches, the crowd moved to the beats of drums, protest songs and chants of “Tangkap Azam Baki” towards Dataran Merdeka, with uniformed police personnel standing guard along the entire route.
Protesters raised a large placard of Azam’s caricature and another of Anwar, both with a large red X.
A white banner at the front line read “Lawan Dua Darjat” - a demand for justice in enforcement against allegations of corruption.
Seen on the ground were representatives from various groups, including Parti Sosialis Malaysia, Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism and Mandiri.
Lawmakers who were present at the protest did not take part in the march
The protesters later gathered with the backdrop of the recently upgraded Sultan Abdul Samad courthouse.
Representatives from various student groups ended the rally at around 6pm with several demands that reiterated their future is at stake if no serious action is taken to address the root of corruption in Malaysia. - Mkini
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