KUCHING: In response to the newly appointed Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner, Minister in the Chief Minister’s Office (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip said there were many comments about the appointment of Latheefa Koya and some had negative reactions to it.
However, he said that he would not comment on her personal attributes or professional competency on the position.
“Nor would I venture to suggest that there are better candidates for the position.”
Talib said that with respect to the candidature, ideally a few names ought to be offered for consideration.
“As this is a very highly important appointment, the existence of a list might reduce the level of intensity of criticism.
“People accept it better if they know that there is a list and discussion on the candidates, and eventually proper consultation. Most important of all, the Cabinet must be apprised of the whole thing,” he told New Sarawak Tribune when contacted yesterday.
As a result, the process of her appointment drew a lot of criticisms which come from within Pakatan Harapan (PH) and other NGOs.
“They strongly questioned the unilateral decision and action of the Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in making the appointment,” stressed Talib.
He added that a number of observers were questioning these issues from within PH which had indications of strong disagreement and dissent.
“Outsiders can only draw some conclusion, that the unilateral appointment provides the opportunity for certain parties and factions to vent their anger towards the PM, possibly reflecting bigger rift in the coalition.
“We have to wait if the apparently internal dissensions reflect the instability between Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), DAP and PKR or Amanah.
“It ought to remember that the current government is forged on an expedient formula of bitter adversaries cobbling a loose alliance, thus it takes little to rekindle the old animosity amongst them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Talib said there were many who are questioning PH’s transparency as their 14th General Election Manifesto has been cast aside. Some fear that the old Dr Mahathir will be making a comeback.
He then pointed out that these were the fears or justifiable concerns by everyone.
“Let us hope that the anti-corruption crusade truly bear genuine fruits. Needed for this is transparency, accountability and independence of MACC,” he said.
