Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has expressed disapproval towards the recent interrogation of his son by the country’s anti-graft agency, emphasizing the investigation’s “selective” nature and alleging that it is driven by political motives. The 98-year-old former leader has accused the current government, headed by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, of utilizing the law to target its political adversaries.
Mahathir’s 66-year-old son, Mirzan Mahathir, was summoned for questioning by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) regarding his business activities and assets, both domestically and internationally. Mahathir has shown concern for his son and criticized the 30-day deadline given to disclose all transactions since the age of 22, cautioning that non-compliance could lead to a five-year prison sentence.
The MACC’s decision to investigate Mirzan Mahathir is part of a broader examination of the disclosures made in the Panama Papers, as well as his involvement in the sale and purchase of government-linked companies. The agency has been scrutinizing entities named in the Panama Papers since August 2022, which exposed tax evasion by affluent individuals around the globe.
In addition to his son’s case, Mahathir has asserted that he and Tun Daim Zainuddin, a former finance minister and close ally, are also subjects of scrutiny by the authorities. He has accused Prime Minister Anwar of turning against him and Tun Daim, despite having received their support during the 2018 General Election.
Furthermore, he has dismissed the notion that individuals holding the title “Tun” are immune to investigation and has affirmed his willingness to comply with any investigation. Mahathir stated that he is prepared to undergo investigation and urged the authorities to proceed with their inquiries.
The former Prime Minister has also censured Anwar’s administration for purportedly using the MACC to pursue its political adversaries. This situation has raised concerns about the politicization of the country’s anti-corruption efforts. This latest controversy underscores the ongoing power struggle between Mahathir and Anwar, both prominent figures in Malaysian politics.
In conclusion, Mahathir’s denouncement of the interrogation of his son is the latest development in the ongoing political tensions in Malaysia since Anwar Ibrahim assumed office. The former Prime Minister’s outspoken criticism of the government’s actions adds a new layer of complexity to the country’s political landscape.
As the issue unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how the government and the anti-graft agency respond to Mahathir’s allegations and whether there will be any further developments in the investigation into his son’s business activities. The outcome of this situation could have far-reaching implications for Malaysia’s political climate and its efforts to combat high-level corruption.
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