Investigation on Azam must be transparent

The Gerak Independent (GI) movement has urged the government to conduct a transparent investigation into the allegations made against Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki.

In a statement, it said that there must be an independent and impartial body to investigate the issue.

“Justice must not only be done, but it must be seen to be done. The proceedings must be transparent. Its findings must be reported to Parliament.

“Not only is the MACC’s reputation at stake but also our precious judicial system of governance and the rule of law,” it said.

Azam is linked with an issue over the alleged ownership of shares, which were allegedly purchased by his brother using his trading account in 2015.

Police have initiated investigations into the matter after reports were lodged. The Securities Commission (SC) is also looking into the matter.

GI said the Chief Secretary to the Government should have also initiated an investigation over the allegations.

However, none has been announced so far.

The group said investigations was needed as there is a trust deficit with the country’s law enforcement and justice institutions since the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) fiasco.

“This saga with the MACC, if not handled properly, will break our country even more. We have to reform our institutions urgently.

“We should begin with the MACC Act by amending it as soon as possible. There must be more accountability and transparency in the way our government handles things,” the group added.

NST