MACC deputy chief defends boss

Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) deputy chief commissioner Abu Kassim Mohamed today shot down criticism that his boss had acted unprofessionally when he hinted that Selangor Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim had abused his powers.

Speaking to reporters at the Putra World Trade Centre this morning, Abu Kassim said director-general Ahmad Said Hamdan had done nothing wrong.

"He acted within the law. According to my interpretation of section 29(4) of the MACC Act, he can make that kind of statement so there’s nothing wrong with it," said Abu Kassim.

Section 29(4) of the MACC Act states that any officer with the rank of commissioner is alowed to make open statements about an investigation. This qualifies Ahmad Said’s comments last week, given his position as chief commissioner.

Pakatan Rakyat leaders had taken umbrage at Ahmad Said’s insinuation that there was wrongdoing on Khalid’s part when he said the MACC has strong evidence of graft against the Selangor menteri besar.

Pakatan leaders said the statement was highly unprofessional and aimed at discrediting the Pakatan-led Selangor government. They also claimed it was reflective of their past accusations that MACC was a ‘cosmetic’ body set up to earn brownie points for the ruling coalition, instead of intensifying the fight against graft.

MACC’s quick reaction to the complaint lodged against Khalid had lent credence to these accusations, with many questioning why the body has yet to address the numerous corruption complaints lodged against Umno and Barisan Nasional members in the past.

Brushing aside such allegations, Abu Kassim today explained that new investigation procedures by the MACC will quash any allegations of partiality.

"The findings of the investigation must first be referred to the operation panel where they will be studied before any decision is made (on whether to prefer a charge).

"The panel comprises members from various backgrounds and they are independent."

He was, however, vague when asked about the numerous complaints lodged against Umno and BN members, simply saying the cases were "still under investigation".

"All the cases before Jan 1, 2009, will be dealt with according to the old laws (Anti-Corruption Agency Act). MACC will only be dealing with complaints lodged after this date," he said.

Khalid has been accused of misusing state funds in the maintenance of his luxury car. There have also been allegations of wrongdoing in the donation of cows to his Bandar Tun Razak parliamentary constituency during Hari Raya Haji.

The menteri besar has denied any wrongdoing in the two matters and has sued Selangor opposition leader Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for defamation.