PDRM ‘deep state’ should be probed by independent body, not by cops

Charles Santiago, FMT

I don’t know where to start, or how to make the police understand that they can’t investigate themselves as the force has been implicated in the deep state at play in Malaysia.

But hold on. One doesn’t really have to drum it into the police that probing themselves does not add up to an independent investigation, does one?

Despite this, I read that the police have started a probe and questioned two people including a journalist.

A top-ranking officer in the federal police’s prosecution and law division, Mior Farid Alathrash, has said he won’t discount calling Deputy Rural Development Minister R Sivarasa or myself in for questioning.

This is a joke when we should be talking to an independent team of investigators about the possibility of the existence of a clandestine government, made up of hidden networks of power acting independently of a state’s political leadership, in pursuit of their own agenda.

As a lawmaker, I have every right to speak up against any attempt to de-stabilise through devious means the government voted in by the people.

This includes unfounded propaganda, conspiracy theories and political manoeuvring, which can create chaos and further divisions in our multiracial society.

In fact, it’s my duty and responsibility to comment on issues that can pose a threat to the national security and well-being of my fellow citizens.

Will I share my concerns so that together, we can protect this nation and its people? Definitely and without an iota of doubt.

But only with those who are able to act independently and without fear or favour.

As such, I call upon the government to bring together a team of people who are free from external control and not subject to anyone’s authority to investigate concerns raised about the deep state.

It’s only common sense not to allow public bodies, including the police, to probe themselves.

Charles Santiago is DAP MP for Klang.