KUCHING: The appointment of Latheefa Koya as the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief by Prime Minister is “legally correct but politically doubtful”.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing said that Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has the legal right to appoint Latheefa, and it is within his right.
“The question now is, does he have the sole power in doing it?” Masing queried.
He said in Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) 14th General Election manifestos, among other things, is to let the Parliament and its select committee to decide who should head the non-government organisation (NGOs) especially MACC.
“Tun M, it seems, is returning back to his old dictatorial ways,” he pointed out.
He stressed PH leaders will have to decide among themselves whether Mahathir’s administrative decision on Latheefa’s appointment is in line with their political reformation agenda.
“It’s PH internal matter, but with devastating effect on their credibility should they deviate from their promises.
“Malaysian voters will have to reassess PH credibility as the administrator of this country come the next general election.”
