Azam attackers have their own agendas, says Bersatu’s Faizal

PETALING JAYA: Those calling for the head of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief Azam Baki over stocks bought in his name have an “agenda”, said Bersatu deputy president Ahmad Faizal Azumu.

Faizal urged all parties not to engage in “media warfare” as a way to punish Azam. The relevant authorities, namely the police, the Securities Commission and the MACC, must be given the space to conduct their investigations, he said.

He said the loud voices in the media touting the issue of the stocks and wanting Azam removed from office seemed to have a specific agenda. “Apparently, they want to punish (Azam) before there is a trial where solid evidence will be presented in accordance with the law.”

Faizal said it appeared as though the attacks on Azam were “aimed at creating a negative perception around the reputation of (Azam) and the MACC.” He said Azam must be afforded due process in accordance with the principle of innocent until proven guilty.

Azam has been accused of holding millions of shares in publicly listed companies, but said at a press conference last week that he had allowed his brother to use his account to buy the shares. The Securities Commission has since said they will question Azam on the matter.

Earlier yesterday, an association representing former MACC officers had called for restraint in public speculation on the case pending the outcome of investigations.

The association’s president, Mazlan Mohamad, was quoted as saying that the targeted attacks appeared to assume guilt and sought to undermine public confidence in the MACC.

Mazlan said the association has faith in the abilities of the police and the Securities Commission to conduct a fair investigation. — Free Malaysia Today