PUTRAJAYA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob should advise the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to suspend embattled Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Tan Sri Azam Baki from his duties until independent investigations are complete, said Amanah top brass.
Party deputy president Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub made the call following allegations against the chief commissioner over ownership of shares in two public-listed companies.
“Amanah is fighting on the principles of integrity and democracy, and we demand that Ismail Sabri take this action (advise the Agong) in accordance with Article 40(1) of the federal constitution to suspend Azam from his position until an independent investigation is completed.”
He said this in a press conference after handing over a memorandum to a representative from the Prime Minister’s Office here.
The Pulai MP said Azam’s explanation on the millions of ringgit worth of shares was very suspicious, remarking, “I hope Azam doesn’t hide behind the Agong and the palace.
“What a shame to the country!”
He pleaded for the Agong to invoke his powers and take action on the debacle that has now become a larger issue.
“Tuanku, please do something. Something is rotten in the state of Denmark,” he said.
He reiterated his calls for a special Parliament sitting to be held immediately to discuss and debate the controversy as the parliamentary select committee alone is not enough to handle issues of such magnitude.
It is an offence for a public servant to purchase shares amounting to more than RM100,000. Existing laws also stipulate that it is wrong for anyone to buy shares under a different person’s name.
“Despite claiming that the shares belong to his brother, his failure to declare ownership of shares according to Circular 3, 2002 is an offence.
“Azam can be subjected to disciplinary action under the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993,” said Salahuddin.
Amanah vice-president Datuk Mahfuz Omar, who was present at the event, echoed Salahuddin’s sentiments, calling for a transparent investigation into the allegations made against Azam.
Mahfuz expressed disappointment as the top anti-graft buster is tasked to combat corruption, but instead he is involved in the stock trading matter.
“If it’s true that the shares belong to his brother, where did he get the money to buy the shares?” he asked.
In a sarcastic manner, the Pokok Sena MP said that the police force, court system and attorney-general (AG) could be abolished if all parties are satisfied with Azam’s dubious explanation.
“We live in a systematic country, with courts, the MACC, police and the AG.
“It would need to be based on investigations.”
Also present at the event was Taman Templer assemblyman and Amanah mobilisation director Mohd Sany Hamzan. – The Vibes, January 17, 2022
