Anwar: Arrest corrupt leaders, regardless of party or status
LUMUT: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated the government's firm stance in combating corruption and abuse of power, assuring that no one will be protected, whether from the ruling coalition, the opposition or former leaders.
He said the government under his leadership would not obstruct any investigation or arrest by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), as long as the person involved had indeed committed an offence.
"Arrest them every day, for all I care. I won't stop it... now some say there'll be more arrests in Sabah.
"Arrest anyone, be it from the Unity Government, the opposition, or even those who are retired.
"As long as it's true they stole, arrest them," he said.
The Tambun member of parliament said this during his speech at the closing ceremony of the Madani Rakyat Programme at Lumut Waterfront here today.
Also present were Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Citing several cases involving former ministers linked to multi-billion ringgit financial scandals, Anwar said some are still trying to gain public sympathy by citing their age and status.
"There are former ministers saying, 'Pity us, we're old'.
"I do feel sorry, but if you stole the people's money, you must return it," he said.
Anwar said that his Madani government will continue to uphold proper administrative governance and adhere to the principle of transparency without compromise.
He said this includes putting an end to corrupt practices and the awarding of projects without open tender, which undermines administrative integrity and denies the people access to better services.
"I want to recover what was stolen from the country, no matter who took it. That is our policy.
"So I hope everyone cooperates so we can continue working properly," he said.
Anwar stressed that he holds no personal grudge against individuals who wronged him in the past, but it is a different matter when it concerns the nation's assets.
"You insulted me, imprisoned me, assaulted me… now I'm prime minister, and I've forgiven all of that.
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