JOHOR BARU: State PKR chief Hassan Abdul Karim has come to Latheefa Koya's defence, saying that any campaign or petition to force her resignation should be stopped.
He said that she should instead be given space and opportunity to carry out her duties as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief.
"Let us not let one appointment to cause cracks in Pakatan Harapan.
"The Prime Minister has announced that his decision is final on the appointment. Whether we like it or not, we have to accept the decision," he said.
Hassan believed that the remarks by PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim with regards to the issue would help the Prime Minister realise to refer such matters to the Cabinet or the Pakatan supreme council for a decision in the future.
He also said that the Pakatan leadership should close ranks with continuous dialogue and discussions.
"Let's use this episode as a lesson as Pakatan needs to be united to move forward," he said in a statement on Sunday (June 9).
Hassan added that from a politically moral perspective, Anwar asking for an explanation from Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was correct based on the Pakatan's election manifesto.
"Legally, the Prime Minister's decision to appoint Latheefa without consulting the Cabinet or Parliament is legal and does not contravene the Federal Constitution or any existing laws.
"The differences in opinions and approach between Dr Mahathir and Anwar in this matter shows that democracy is fresh in Pakatan and serves as a check and balance to prevent the Prime Minister from becoming autocratic or the Cabinet as mere rubber stamps," he added.
Hassan added that Latheefa has the credibility and responsibility to combat corruption in the country without fear or favour.
The sudden news of Latheefa replacing Datuk Seri Shukri Abdull as chief commissioner sent shock waves, leading to thumbs up from supporters but brickbats from critics over the manner of the appointment.
Last week, Anwar said Dr Mahathir needs to clarify Latheefa's appointment at the proper forums.
According to Anwar, matters that needed clarification included why the Cabinet was not informed, and that the appointment was allegedly not in line with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act as well as violated the Pakatan manifesto.
Dr Mahathir had said it was his personal decision to appoint Latheefa to the post. He also said that he had "listened to many people" before making his decision.
