Ex-CJ Raus: MACC tarnished after 'active politician' made chief

 

Former chief justice Raus Sharif has attributed the downfall of the MACC’s reputation in recent years to the appointment of an ‘active politician’ as its chief commissioner in the past.

He said that the independence and impartiality of the commission were not upheld upon “political interference”.

“The independence, impartiality and integrity of the MACC should always be upheld and preserved. And the officers of the MACC must carry out their duties without fear of it. Most importantly, free of political interference.

“Unfortunately, events in the last four years have somewhat cast doubt on the independence and impartiality of the MACC. It started with the appointment of an active politician as the chief commissioner of MACC.

“The appointment has sadly led to a widespread perception that whatever action was taken or done during that period was politically motivated,” he said during a speech at the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Forum 2022.

Appointment of Latheefa Koya

This is a possible reference to the appointment of Latheefa Koya who was unilaterally appointed to the role by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 2019.

Latheefa Koya

Latheefa’s appointment to helm the commission courted controversy as it circumvented the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Public Appointments.

Raus said that it was unsurprising that MACC took “a beating” from her appointment.

She gave up her PKR membership upon the appointment.

“Fortunately, the tenure of the MACC chief, that MACC chief commissioner did not last for long,” he added.

Raus said the current MACC chief commissioner, referring to Azam Baki, must restore public trust and confidence in the commission.

“Although this cannot be done overnight, I implore all of you present today by working together to contribute your skills and expertise and lend a hand in making, to borrow the word of Donald Trump, make MACC great again,” he said.

He added that while it was important for the MACC to be open to criticism, however, harsh and “unwarranted” remarks weaken the body in performing its statutory duty. - Mkini