Bersih expects the “Tangkap Azam Baki” (Arrest Azam Baki) rally scheduled for April 25 at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, to draw a strong crowd, with higher participation than previous gatherings.
The electoral reform group’s chairperson said the issue involving the MACC chief commissioner has gained increasing public attention.
“This is not a new issue but a longstanding one that has been debated and opposed by the public, including leaders and supporters of political parties, especially Pakatan Harapan.
“The issue has gained more traction following repeated revelations pointing to flaws within the MACC. The government’s failure to act has added to public anger,” Faisal Abdul Aziz told Malaysiakini.
The Tangkap Azam Baki secretariat had launched the rally to push for a comprehensive investigation into Azam’s share ownership and alleged misconduct linked to a “corporate mafia”.
The secretariat, backed by 32 entities including Bersih, claimed the matter has yet to receive a full explanation from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the government.
Mandiri activist Ahsanul Akmal Sulam said the rally would be the third in a series of demonstrations, with expectations of increased turnout following nationwide talks and mobilisation efforts by a coalition of students, NGOs, and political parties.
He added that the recent arrests of three activists who staged a protest during an event attended by Azam could fuel public anger and draw more people to the streets.
“The people will return to the streets with a spirit of resistance similar to the era of BN’s downfall,” he said.
Rafizi’s pull
However, political analysts are divided in their turnout predictions.
Political analyst James Chin from the Institute of Asian Studies at the University of Tasmania said the rally could draw a larger crowd with the participation of Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli.
“I expect perhaps a few thousand people to turn up, particularly among Rafizi’s supporters who want to show their support,” he said.
Chin also believes the issue surrounding Azam is escalating and putting pressure on the government leadership, seemingly placing Anwar in a “difficult position”.
“It seems increasingly clear that he will not get a contract renewal,” he said, referring to Azam’s position.
He added that the series of recent protests and gatherings appears aimed at exerting pressure to prevent any reappointment, including in other positions, such as senator.
At the same time, he said the government’s eventual decision on the matter would affect public perception of the country’s leadership.
“Although he has contributed in the past, the reality is that this individual is seen as problematic by some and considered too political,” he said.
‘People view it as waste of time’
However, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur associate professor Mazlan Ali argued that “political stability” has reduced the public’s inclination to join protests.
He also claimed the issue involving Azam relates to public service protocol, rather than a criminal act.
“If he (Azam) violated any rules, he would be subject to an internal investigation by the Public Service Department.
“So it is clear that the matters linked to Azam relate to public service. It is not a criminal issue, nor does it involve wrongdoing that caused losses to the state,” Mazlan argued.
He added that if the rally draws a large crowd, it would likely be due to successful mobilisation by organisers rather than a spontaneous public movement.
“People now see the country and its politics as stable, and the PM has brought stability, progress, and strong investment at the national level.
“So the public feels these kinds of demonstrations are a waste of time. They do not want a chaotic or unstable situation, as they want stability.
“So even if there is a turnout, it may be due to mobilisation rather than a genuine wave of public awareness,” he said.
On Feb 15, hundreds, including several PKR MPs - Rafizi, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, Wong Chen - gathered in Kuala Lumpur to demand Azam’s resignation and arrest, merging with shoppers at the time preparing for Chinese New Year and Ramadan.
Since then, the nationwide “Jelajah Tangkap Azam Baki” has been organised as indoor events featuring various activists, with the most recent in Johor last night. - Mkini
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