SHAH ALAM - While Malaysians welcome the government's resolve to curb corruption, concerns surface regarding potential favouritism in targeting specific leaders.
Political analyst Muhammad Afifi Abdul Razak cautioned against selective investigations, urging transparency and clear justifications.
He said investigating political leaders mentioned in the Pandora Papers or other sources, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), would raise doubts among the people.
He stated that people would undoubtedly wonder whether such actions are normal for any government, including in this country, or if there is an implied political agenda.
"In general, we highly welcome the government's action to cleanse the country from corruption and abuse of power, especially among political leaders, but it must be done transparently.
"However, the concept of transparency in politics is not just lip service; it must be proven through correct actions and not through favouritism," he told Sinar.
His comments follow former Chief Justice Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad's article suggesting potential jail time for corrupt leaders, including retired prime ministers.
This ignited debate, with Afifi questioning the rationale behind such pronouncements.
He also questioned whether such actions were taken solely to justify the words expressed in their manifesto to eradicate corruption and abuse of power.
"All these questions must be answered by the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) and the Madani government.
"This is because we see contradictions in the government's actions towards those suspected of corruption and abuse of power.
"What is actually trying to be proven with such actions?" he asked.
Umno Malaysia Veterans Chairman Datuk Othman Desa, however, expressed confidence in the nation's legal system.
He stressed the principle of fairness and urged trust in the process.
"Do not look at something from just one perspective; the Chief Justice would not want to be biased.
"This is the principle of justice: whoever commits a wrong must be investigated.
"We need to trust the country's legal system; there is no favouritism, even non-politicians can also be charged," he added.