Stop questioning Dr M’s decision on appointing Latheefa, urges Mukhriz

(FMT) – All quarters must accept and respect the decision of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad regarding his appointment of Latheefa Koya as head of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, PPBM deputy president Mukhriz Mahathir said today.

Mukhriz, who is also Kedah menteri besar, said Latheefa was in no position to vacate her position as urged by various people, including those in Pakatan Harapan.

“She was appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the PM. How can they ask her to leave?” Bernama reported him as saying at the Arau PPBM’s Hari Raya open house at the residence of former Perlis menteri besar Abdul Hamid Pawanteh here today.

Mukhriz said the appointment should not have become an issue.

“Dr Mahathir has stated yesterday that his decision is final. We should respect his decision. He found her capable of carrying out the job.

“Latheefa’s appointment should not be questioned. Let her carry out her tasks, which are heavy.”

Latheefa replaced Mohd Shukri Abdull, who requested his contract which was until May 17, 2020, be shortened.

Earlier, Johor PKR chief Hassan Karim had called for a halt to a petition urging Latheefa to resign.

Hassan, who is Pasir Gudang MP, said Latheefa should be given a chance to prove herself.

“Fellow Pakatan Harapan members should stop the dispute on Latheefa’s appointment because this may lead to a split in the coalition.

“Besides that, the prime minister’s decision is final. Like it or not, we have to accept it,” he said.

Fellow PKR MP from Setiawangsa, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, had urged the public to sign the petition calling for Latheefa to resign.

He said anyone proposed as MACC chief should have been vetted by a parliamentary select committee first, as this was part of PH’s election promise.

Previously, Wangsa Maju MP Tan Yee Kew had also signed the petition calling on Latheefa to quit.

Another petition, seeking support for Latheefa, has also made its appearance on change.org.