No decision on extending Azam’s contract yet, says Anwar

 

The prime minister said he will announce whether Azam Baki’s tenure as MACC chief would be extended after he has made a decision. (Bernama pic)

KAJANG: 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has brushed off a Bloomberg report claiming that he is set to extend Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief Azam Baki’s tenure by another six months.

Anwar dismissed speculation over Azam’s tenure as the MACC chief commissioner, which is set to end in May, saying no decision has been made yet.

“If a decision has been made, I will announce it. Anyway, his contract is not over yet,” he told reporters after performing Friday prayers here.

Yesterday, Bloomberg quoted sources as saying Anwar is expected to approve another extension for Azam to continue leading the anti-graft agency.

The news outlet reported that Azam is likely to receive a six-month extension, which would be his third since taking office in March 2020.

The MACC chief was given a one-year contract extension on May 10 in 2023, and another one-year extension the following year.

Anwar also said the king has approved the government’s proposed candidate for the post of Malaysian ambassador to the US, with an announcement to be made soon.

“A decision has been made, the king has given his consent. We are following the process. Just be patient, (the announcement will be made) in a day or two,” he said. - FMT