Previous govt did not order probe on graft allegations, says PM

SHAH ALAM: The recent slew of graft probes and charges came about because the present administration had ordered the authorities to clamp down on corruption, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said this was the difference between the unity government and the previous administration, where the latter did not order the authorities to investigate graft allegations.

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"Many asked why there weren't any charges before this and why it came about now?

"Because the previous leader did not give any instructions. The present leader ordered the authorities to act freely and transparently," said Anwar during his winding-up speech at the PKR special national congress in Stadium Melawati here Shah Alam on Saturday (March 18).

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"Whoever’s corrupted, arrest and charge them," added Anwar.

Anwar did not specify which leader he was referring to in his speech.

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Anwar then took a shot at PAS, accusing the Islamist party of defending Bersatu leaders who were facing multiple graft charges.

"I don’t understand them (PAS)," added Anwar.

Anwar was also perplexed that certain parties had accused the unity government of being too cruel in charging corrupt leaders.

"I want to tell them that you can talk as much as you want, but we won’t be intimidated against acting strongly towards corruption," added Anwar.

Anwar said his proudest achievement in the unity government was that all ministerial works and contracts were being monitored to ensure that all tendering processes were clean.

"We ensured that no one squandered wealth.”

Anwar also denied allegations that the unity government had betrayed the Malays.

"Give me an example of how we betrayed Islam. If anyone would give me an example or suggestion, I will accept it," added Anwar.

The PKR special congress ended at about 6.30pm and it saw speeches delivered by various leaders in the morning.