Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad needs to clarify the appointment of Latheefa Beebi Koya as the new Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner at the proper forums.

In making the call last night, PKR president Anwar Ibrahim said the decision to appoint Latheefa was made by the prime minister and that only he knew about it until the announcement of the appointment.

According to Anwar, matters that need clarification include why the Cabinet was not informed, that the appointment was allegedly not in line with the MACC Act and also violated the Pakatan Harapan election manifesto.

“Of course, clarification is required as this is what we promised, but we should only use proper forums, such as the Cabinet or the Pakatan leadership council if we want to raise and seek proper clarification.

"Manifesto not complied with and seen as a political appointment… I find it necessary to explain to the public as to why the manifesto was not fully observed and respected, although I think Latheefa has the necessary credentials for the position," Anwar told reporters after attending a Hari Raya dinner at Masjid Kubang Semang in Permatang Pauh.

Among those present were his wife and Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman, State International and Domestic Trade, Consumer Affairs and Entrepreneur Development Committee chairperson Abdul Halim Hussain, Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar and Penang State Assembly Speaker Law Choo Kiang.

Anwar, who is the MP for Port Dickson, said he was agreeable to giving the prime minister time and space to clarify the appointment at the proper platforms.

"Nonetheless, our duty is to ensure the effectiveness in the administration of the government as we have given the commitment to support the government administration under the leadership of Tun Mahathir.

"We will ensure MACC remains independent and those given the task be seen as very professional and not to be dragged by political affiliation and faction affiliation. This concern has been expressed," he said.

Anwar also said Latheefa’s resignation as a PKR member had been accepted by the party and it should not become an issue.

Latheefa was appointed as the MACC chief commissioner effective June 1, replacing Mohd Shukri Abdull, who decided to shorten his service contract.

- Bernama