FURTHER reforms to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) are needed to make it more independent, including removing it from the direct influence of the prime minister and the executive branch of government, the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4) said.

Responding to the recent arrest and charges brought against Bersatu leaders – including former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin – C4 urged the government to overhaul the MACC in light of allegations that investigations into politicians have been politically motivated.

“Parliament must enact institutional reforms that would improve transparency and accountability in governance such as a procurement act and a political funding act, and the establishment of an ombudsman.

“It must also expedite the amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 to encourage public exposure of corrupt practices,” C4 said, adding that the MACC must be removed from the direct influence of the prime minister and the executive branch, and given parliamentary oversight.

“The government must initiate long-term reforms of the MACC. A special committee must be set up immediately to implement them, including an amendment to the Federal Constitution to pave the way for the establishment of an independent anti-corruption commission, effectively establishing it as constitutional commission,” it said.

Yesterday, Bersatu president Muhyiddin was charged with six counts of abuse of power and money laundering. He is alleged to have received bribes totalling RM232.5 million.

He has pleaded not guilty and is out on a RM2 million bail. However, it is understood he is expected to face a fresh charge at Shah Alam High Court on Monday.

Muhyiddin told the press that the decision to charge him with corruption was made by the most powerful party in the national administration, adding that the charges were decided upon even before the investigation was complete.

The MACC responded by saying that the investigation into the Jana Wibawa programme was based on information and evidence alone.

In a statement, the MACC said that the case was referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) for consideration.

“The investigation process is free from interference by any party,” the agency said.

C4 said, as the nation’s top anti-corruption body, it is imperative that the MACC has no internal political bias.

This is especially important considering that the MACC is only now conducting investigations and prosecutions after a new government has taken office.

“Why were these investigations not initiated when allegations first surfaced?” C4 asked. – March 11, 2023.