DAP lawmaker Ramkarpal Singh asserted that the videos linked to the alleged Sabah corruption scandal establish, at the very least, a prima facie case of corruption.
As a lawyer by training, he stressed that these videos cannot be dismissed due to an alleged lack of information and must be thoroughly investigated.
Describing MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki’s statement that insufficient information is hindering investigations as “absurd”, Ramkarpal asserted that the commission has extensive investigative powers under the MACC Act 2009.
“There is no doubt that the videos emerging in this saga provide sufficient information for MACC to invoke various measures under the Act, including search and seizure, confiscation of movable property, interception of communications, and scrutiny of suspects’ accounts.
“In light of this, Azam’s claim that all MACC can do for now is record explanations from both sides is unacceptable,” he added in a statement.
Previously, Azam’s predecessor, Latheefa Koya, stated that the videos provided “clear evidence” of corruption and met the definition of “gratification” under Section 23 of the MACC Act.
Meanwhile, Ramkarpal criticised Azam’s statement as reflecting a “very shallow approach” to the investigation, potentially fuelling speculation of selective prosecution.
“Azam’s remarks suggest that the MACC has either not investigated or is unwilling to probe beyond the videos, which could seriously undermine public confidence, especially given the alleged involvement of high-ranking government officials.
“No effort should be spared in investigating this scandal, and MACC must avoid statements that create the impression that the case may be closed due to insufficient evidence, which is far from reality,” he added.
Yesterday, Azam stated that the whistleblower who released the videos to Malaysiakini remains unwilling to hand over the recordings to MACC.
“What has been published (in Malaysiakini) is ‘terlalu sedikit’ (too little),” he said, adding that the lack of information complicates a thorough investigation.
In addition to the videos, MACC is also probing the whistleblower’s latest claim that he was offered a settlement. He has provided Malaysiakini with more than 50 screenshots of WhatsApp conversations related to this allegation.