KUALA LUMPUR – Transparency International Malaysia (TI-M) has proposed that an amendment to the law be introduced to prevent the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief from being prematurely removed from office.
TI-M president Muhammad Mohan said this will ensure that the agency is able to conduct its business and fight graft without interference.
“I agree, because otherwise, whenever there is a change in political leadership, the party in control (of Parliament) can vote the chief commissioner out.
“So, I think it is best to have a fixed period,” he said in reply to a question during the Battling Corruption and Patronage webinar organised by Sekhar Institute yesterday.
He was asked if it will be better for the MACC chief’s term of service to be fixed, by removing the ruling party’s power to make dismissals.
Under the current provision, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong appoints the MACC chief on the advice of the prime minister, for a period and under terms and conditions specified in the instrument of appointment.
The law does not prohibit the termination of the appointed individual’s service.
Apart from guaranteeing that the chief commissioner is able to serve their term in full, Muhammad also recommended that the appointment be decided by Parliament rather than the prime minister.
“At the moment, a name will be recommended by the prime minister, and (the nominee) will then be appointed by the king.
“What we are suggesting is that several names are picked for interviews through a parliamentary select committee, of which three will be given to the prime minister.
“From here, the prime minister will forward the names for Parliament to decide. That way, we can make MACC more independent.” – The Vibes, February 5, 2021
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