“Those who see these investigations as politically motivated should look at the facts and not political sentiments to confuse the people,” — Anwar
KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must always discharge its duties and responsibilities independently and impartially, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
This includes any investigations against political figures and former leaders which were in line with the MACC’s role in carrying out its duties based on the principles of justice and the rule of law, Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) reported as the Tambun Member of Parliament (MP) said.
“Those who see these investigations as politically motivated should look at the facts and not political sentiments to confuse the people.
“If the investigations reveal that this is a high profile case that provides good grounds for prosecution, then it is the responsibility of the MACC and the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) to do so,” he told the Dewan Negara sitting on Monday (19 June).
Anwar was responding to Senator A. Kesavadas’ question on the extent to which the MACC is obliged to investigate all cases of corruption and abuse of power involving former prime ministers.
Meanwhile, Anwar called on all parties who claim that the country’s investigative agencies, including the MACC, are acting on political instructions to provide evidence to support their allegations.
He said this was because sometimes actions and decisions of the MACC were politicised by certain parties.
“Look at the facts, if during our tenure we have used our power to award contracts to our family members and cronies and enrich ourselves, then do not question why MACC is investigating and if MACC is investigating, do not say it is a political allegation.
“As Members of Parliament (Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara), we should take responsibility to protect the country from rampant corruption,” he said in his reply to Senator Datuk Dominic Lau Hoe Chai’s supplementary question.
Dominic wanted to know what mechanism the MACC uses to ensure that its investigations are not influenced by those in power or politically motivated directives.
Anwar said that currently the MACC’s investigation procedures are quite clear, i.e. when a complaint is filed, investigations are carried out immediately. He said he himself has asked all law enforcement agencies to conduct investigations professionally and without fear.
The Prime Minister also assured that the unity government would always take firm action against the cancer of corruption in the country.
