KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has denied allegations of being used as a “political weapon”, a day after opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan’s statement on the matter.
In a statement today, the anti-graft body said it vehemently denies allegations by certain political parties that it is being used as a political weapon in carrying out its actions.
“The MACC firmly emphasises that it is an independent investigation agency that always ensures its actions are done according to the law without political leanings.
“The accusations are unfounded and irresponsible, which may tarnish the reputation of MACC and create a negative perception on the commission.”
Yesterday, PH slammed the use of enforcement agencies as political weapons to intimidate and pressure MPs into declaring support for the prime minister.
“The PH presidential council has been informed of actions by agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, Inland Revenue Board (IRB) and police, towards opposition lawmakers, their officers and families.”
The coalition said in a statement that it understood this has happened repeatedly to pressure MPs to pledge support to Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who has yet to prove his majority support in Parliament.
“We support actions that are based on the rule of law. But the abuse of institutions or law enforcement agencies to annoy, pressure, or intimidate political enemies is unacceptable.”
Last weekend, PKR lost two MPs – Julau’s Larry Sng and Tebrau’s Steven Choong – after the two turned government-friendly independents.
Although both MPs said they switched camps to access allocations for their constituencies, they had to parry allegations that they had been threatened by the authorities. – The Vibes, March 6, 2021
