Newly minted Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali should not be in the task force investigating 1MDB, owing to a clear conflict of interests that he has been appointed to replace Abdul Gani Patail under mysterious circumstances, opined a senior lawyer.

The lawyer said Apandi's number two, Solicitor-General Azailiza Mohd Ahad, should be part of the task force instead.

“Clearly Apandi is conflicted as he was appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak on July 27.

“Hence, how is Apandi going to investigate or press charges should a case be found against Najib as his appointment and Gani's ( photo ) removal is on PM's recommendation,” the lawyer who wanted to remain anonymous told Malaysiakini .

Lawyers for Liberty executive director Eric Paulsen also shared the same view and said looking at the suspicious circumstances of Gani's removal, it would probably be advisable for Apandi not to lead the task force.

“Public perception and confidence is key in any investigation, and if there is any bias or appearance of bias, then he should decline.

“Apandi was appointed by the PM and is the direct successor to Gani. Certainly doesn't look good (if Apandi is part of the task force),” said Paulsen to this news portal.

No interference or pressure imposed

Yesterday, the five oversight panel of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, which is part of the task force investigating 1MDB, in a strongly worded statement said there should not be an interference or pressure imposed.

"The task force must be given the widest possible latitude to conduct the investigation without fear or favour.

"In this matter, we strongly feel it is highly pertinent to ensure the integrity of MACC as an independent anti-corruption commission is maintained and not compromised," read their joint statement yesterday.

The statement came following the cabinet reshuffle and Gani's removal as attorney-general, and the appointment of four Public Accounts Committee (PAC) members including its chairperson, to ministerial and deputy ministerial positions.

Apandi, 65, a former Federal Court judge, has defended questions surrounding his appointment and Gani's removal saying it was done legally, according to the Federal Constitution.

The new AG also declined to comment when asked yesterday by Malaysiakini on whether the task force would continue investigating as he had yet to see the investigation papers.

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