Paul Low says will protect independence of task force probing 1MDB

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Paul Low says uncovering the truth with regard to the various allegations directed at 1MDB is of utmost importance. – The Malaysian Insider pic, July 31, 2015. 

Minister in charge of governance and integrity Datuk Paul Low today said he would protect the independence of the special task force investigating 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) to ensure that the probe is carried out without fear or favour.

His statement today comes amid allegations that investigations into 1MDB have been hampered following the abrupt removal of Tan Sri Gani Patail from his post as Attorney-General on Tuesday.

Gani was also part of the special task force investigating 1MDB as well as claims that billions were transferred from 1MDB-linked funds into Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's personal accounts.

"The institutions involved in the on-going investigations are duty bound to carry out their responsibilities independently, transparently and without fear or favour to uncover the truth; and to ensure that charges will duly be brought against anyone involved where sufficient evidence of wrongdoing is found in accordance with the law," Low said in a statement today.

"Uncovering the truth with regard to the various allegations directed at 1MDB is of utmost importance both in the interest of the government and the nation as a whole."

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said that he was concerned with the comments relating to the probe by the task force, which have indicated that certain parties were trying to hamper its efforts to carry out the investigation.

"I was brought into the Federal Cabinet specifically to promote good governance and to strengthen transparency and accountability in the government.

"In line with this mandate, I wish to assure the public that I continue to stand firm in protecting these institutions and their respective officers, and will see to it that they are allowed to conduct the investigations until a satisfactory conclusion is reached.

"The challenges that we are currently facing as a nation are unprecedented, and it is of prime importance for all of us – especially the rakyat – to support these key institutions and to ensure that their independence and professionalism continue to be safeguarded at all cost."

Low has previously come under fire over claims that he had failed to look into the controversial dealings of the debt-ridden state investment vehicle despite the many complaints from critics.

DAP lawmaker Tony Pua, who is one of 1MDB's fiercest critics, said that despite his former reputable track record as an anti-graft activist, Low has instead become an apologist for the Najib administration despite the sheer scale of grand larceny in 1MDB.

Pua had also fired Low and said he should resign from his position for keeping silent on the suspension of The Edge's printing permits, following their reportage on alleged wrongdoings of 1MDB.

- TMI