Why clear Azam without a full probe, asks think tank

 

Abu Zahar Ujang (third from left) says the board found ‘no conflict of interest’ in Azam Baki’s purchase of corporate shares.

PETALING JAYA: A think tank has raised concerns over the decision by the Anti-Corruption Commission Board (ACAB) to clear Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief commissioner Azam Baki of any wrongdoing based on a single meeting and without a thorough investigation.

The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) said if such a conclusion was merely based on Azam’s explanation, then the ACAB has “not carried out its duties properly”.

“This is not an exemplary move by an organisation that is the primary body tasked to oversee the MACC,” it said in a statement.

Earlier today, ACAB cleared Azam of any wrongdoing over the purchase of corporate shares.

Board chairman Abu Zahar Ujang said they spoke to Azam on the matter and accepted his explanation.

“Azam had explained that his share account was used by his brother, Nasir Baki, to purchase shares that he (Azam) did not have any pecuniary interest in.

“The purchase of shares was made in the open market in 2015 and there was no conflict of interest,” he said.

Abu Zahar added that the board was satisfied with Azam’s explanation and found no elements of conflict of interest.

IDEAS urged ACAB to be transparent and elaborate on the process through which the conclusion was reached.

“The board must also disclose which government policy or code of conduct they relied on in clearing Azam of any wrongdoing,” it added.

ACAB should also explain if Azam fulfilled the asset declaration criteria based on a 2002 government circular that requires civil servants to declare their assets. - FMT