KUALA LUMPUR – Retired armed forces NGO National Patriots’ Association (Patriot) have called for an investigation into the claims made by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin that there were parties that demanded his interference in court proceedings.
Its president, Brig-Gen (Rtd) Datuk Mohd Arshad Raji, said in a press statement that the prime minister’s statement is a “very grave matter” and should not be left to brew speculation and damaging allegations in the public sphere.
“Patriot is equally concerned that the PM making this statement on a broadcast televised nationwide will do damage to the reputation of our nation in the eyes of global leaders and foreign investors.
“We demand an immediate, impartial, and transparent investigation, as the rule of law must take its bite if we are serious about restoring public confidence in his government and all the relevant institutions of good governance.
“Patriot also expects those implicated to step forward and own up, even though it is most unthinkable, or at the least pursue such matters in the courts of law to clear their innocence,” said Arshad.
The NGO said that it was “shell-shocked” following Muhyiddin’s revelation that there were appeals to the prime minister’s office requesting interference in court matters to free several individuals who are being charged over criminal acts.
In a special live televised announcement earlier, Muhyiddin had claimed that his critics are “uncomfortable” with him for his refusal to accede to their demands, including interfering with court proceedings. – The Vibes, August 4, 2021
