Daim denounces corruption probe as 'witch-hunt'
PETALING JAYA: Former finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin has ignited a war of words with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over an alleged investigation into him and his family.
Daim vehemently dismissed the probe as a "political witch-hunt," questioning its legitimacy and transparency.
The controversy stems from MACC's recent seizure of Ilham Tower in Kuala Lumpur allegedly linked to Daim.
As justification, MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki reportedly cited corruption and money laundering suspicions.
Responding to this, Anwar proclaimed MACC's impartiality, claiming that "no one is above the law," regardless of their status.
However, Daim's statement painted a starkly different picture.
He categorically denied any wrongdoing, highlighting his lack of notification regarding the specific accusations or offenses allegedly linked to him or his family.
"An organised effort is discrediting me with baseless insinuations and misinformation.
"Until today, despite repeated inquiries, MACC has refused to divulge the nature of the alleged offence," he said.
He further revealed a signed letter from Azam himself explicitly declining to reveal the charges.
"Not being told of the offences against me, I am in no position to answer them or defend myself," he said.
He also claimed that Anwar viewed him as a political threat and aimed to discredit him, citing how the latter said “this is an open secret, where a person has amassed extraordinary wealth” on Dec 22.
“This amply shows his animus against me,” he said.
He urged Anwar and Azam to respect the rule of law, due process, and act accordingly, emphasising the importance of upholding their oaths of office.
"As a former senior member of government, and out of respect for the investigative process, I have kept silent until now.
"However, the Prime Minister and MACC have not shown the same respect for the process with their continuing uncalled-for comments and statements leaving me with no choice but to respond in order to protect my reputation and good name," he added.
