Mat Sabu: Dr M will assess Latheefa from time to time

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will periodically assess the performance of newly-minted MACC chief commissioner Latheefa Koya, says Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu.

The defence minister, who is also Amanah president, said he is confident the prime minister will listen to feedback and criticism on the appointment.

"I am confident the premier has paid attention (to the comments) on the manner in which the appointment was made, and turn these feedback and criticism into a test on Latheefa's wisdom in carrying out her duties.

"If her performance does not meet the expectations of her critics, I am sure the premier will reassess (the situation)," he said in a statement today.

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s Office announced that Latheefa would be replacing Mohd Shukri Abdull as MACC chief commissioner.

Mohd Shukri had stepped down after taking over the anti-corruption commission's helm for a year and despite having almost a year left to his contract,.

Latheefa's sudden appointment courted controversy, with many questioning her impartiality due to her previous political affiliations despite having resigned from PKR just prior to taking up the post.

Many quarters also pointed out that her appointment had by-passed the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Public Appointments formed by the new government to reduce the ability of the prime minister to intervene in key appointments as part of its election manifesto.

It was later revealed that Latheefa had been the prime minister's personal choice, who opted not to consult even his Cabinet on her candidacy.

Meanwhile, Sarawak DAP chairperson Chong Chieng Jen said standard procedures were omitted in the appointment of the new MACC chief.

However, he noted that Latheefa has a proven track record in her struggles for a fairer system and cleaner governance.

Chong said it was the aspiration of Sarawakians to see MACC initiate investigations against past politicians, especially those in Sarawak.

“You know, you cannot have ministers and assistant ministers living in houses worth tens of millions of ringgit. That is just ridiculous,” he was quoted by Borneo Post as saying.

Chong added that it was timely for MACC to start focusing on Sarawak.