PKR Deputy Information Chief Razeef Rakimin has defended the Madani Government’s handling of a high-profile corruption investigation involving Sabah state assemblymen.
He insisted there is no interference in the legal process.
“Under the Madani Government, neither the Prime Minister nor any government leader interferes, whether to hinder or pressure the MACC to expedite prosecutions. Instead, full space is given to the MACC,” he said at a press conference in Kota Kinabalu on Sunday.
Razeef made the remarks while responding to concerns raised during the “Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah” rally in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, where demonstrators criticized the government’s handling of corruption cases.
He reiterated that ensuring thorough investigations was crucial to avoid flawed prosecutions.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has submitted several investigation papers to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP), while others are being reviewed for additional evidence.
Razeef said this measured approach is essential to avoid flawed prosecutions.
“If prosecutions are rushed just to satisfy certain quarters, we fear the prosecution will be flawed, which could result in guilty individuals escaping punishment,” he said.
“Of course, this would damage the credibility of the authorities and the Madani Government.”
Razeef also pointed to the rising number of civil servants being prosecuted for corruption as evidence of the government’s impartial stance.
“Indeed, over the past two years, we have seen many court cases involving civil servants. This shows that we are truly serious and determined to eradicate corruption compared to previous governments,” he said.
He urged Sabahans to remain patient as investigations continue, assuring the public that justice will be served.
“We hope that if these individuals are truly guilty, let them be sentenced and fined according to the law,” he added.
The graft probe has intensified scrutiny on Sabah’s political landscape, but Razeef maintained that the government’s reforms are on track. – January 26, 2025.
