Azam Baki should go on leave while under probe, says Rais Yatim

KUALA LUMPUR: The fundamental question in any probe into the share ownership controversy involving Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki is on the declaration of assets, says Tan Sri Rais Yatim.

The Parliamentary Special Committee on Corruption chairman said the declaration of assets for government officers, including shares, was governed by the 1993 and 2002 civil service circulars.

“Any complaints about abuse of power on the part of the MACC or non-compliance with the rules, must be made to the Complaints Committee.

“The purchase of shares is an individual right. Anyone can buy shares. But in the 2002 circular, it is stated that it cannot exceed RM100,000.

“Regarding the case involving the MACC chief commissioner, was this declared? This is not known.

“The investigating body needs to establish the facts of the case,” said Rais at a press conference Friday (Jan 14).

He also said Azam, who he noted had pledged to cooperate with regard to any probe, should go on leave while under investigation.

The Dewan Negara president said this was the norm when a government officer was under probe.

"The usual practice is that when an officer is investigated for wrongdoing, normally they are suspended from work.

"But there are many views out there saying that this case is not criminal, but more of a wrongdoing or failure to fulfil a duty.

"We (the committee) feel that it is best if he (Azam) goes on leave while investigations are ongoing.

"But it is up to the Public Service Commission to decide whether or not he should go on leave," said Rais at a press conference after chairing a JKMR meeting Friday (Jan 14).

He also said that the JKMR had resolved that an investigation must be conducted into Azam over the reported purchase of shares with his trading account.

More to come