Politics · Malaysia Bureau
MACC overstepped authority in summoning ex-minister, family claims
The Malaysian Advancement Party president has accused the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission of abusing its powers by summoning a former minister and family members. The party argues the MACC Act does not grant such authority.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Malaysian Advancement Party (MAP) has challenged the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's legal authority to summon an ex-minister and family members, claiming the action constitutes an abuse of power.
MAP president Waytha Moorthy stated that Section 36 of the MACC Act does not empower the commission's commissioner to require attendance merely for the purpose of serving a notice. According to Waytha, the provision does not provide such broad authority to compel individuals to appear before the commission under those circumstances.
The dispute centres on the interpretation of the MACC Act's provisions governing the commission's investigative powers. Waytha's assertion suggests the summons may have been issued without proper legal foundation, potentially violating the rights of the summoned individuals.
The matter highlights ongoing tensions between oversight bodies and political figures in Malaysia, as well as debates surrounding the extent and limitations of the MACC's enforcement authority. Legal experts may need to weigh in on the proper interpretation of Section 36 to clarify whether the commission's actions were within its mandate.