KUCHING: The appointment of Latheefa Beebi Koya as head of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has raised concerns about her decision-making credibility, ability and capacity.
In expressing this, Welfare, Community Well-being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said her concern is in regards to her political background as a former PKR stalwart, which contradicts her office’s need for apolitical alliance.
“While Latheefa Koya has been in the forefront in the fight against injustice, and has been actively involved in numerous public interest and human rights cases, what we are really concerned about is her suitability to hold the high-profile and weighty position,” Fatimah said when speaking to reporters at the launching ceremony of Blessing Care Centre at Jalan Chawan, here yesterday.
At the same time, she also admitted that the decision to appoint the MACC chief is the “sole prerogative of the Prime Minister”.
She also pointed out that Latheefa was a PKR member until the day before her appointment was announced.
Due to Latheefa’s previous proximity to the party’s affairs, Fatimah said it could give rise to the perception of conflict of interest.
“People can’t help but associate her with PKR,” she said.
On the other hand, Fatimah hopes Latheefa would be able to handle her responsibilities without any bias and prejudice.
“I am hoping that she would find greater and better ways to combat corruption with transparency, accountability and integrity,” she said.
