PUTRAJAYA: Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the decision on Tan Sri Azam Baki's reappointment as Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner was made with thorough consideration by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Fahmi, who was speaking to reporters earlier, said this in response to Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism's (C4) call yesterday, telling the government to expedite reforms over the appointment process for key anti-graft roles following Azam's second contract extension.
He said that C4 had the right to express any views over the reappointment of Tan Sri Azam Baki as the country's top graft buster.
"C4 has the right to express that view, but at the same time, there are considerations made by the prime minister in making this decision," he told a press conference today.
C4 also said Azam's ongoing leadership which was marked by controversy highlighted a critical need for change in the system.
The anti-graft watchdog also called for a parliamentary select committee establishment on corruption to nominate commissioners, as well as ensure MACC's independence and integrity.
Last week, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali said Sultan Ibrahim announced that Azam would continue to serve as the country's top graft buster.
Mohd Zuki said that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, had consented to Azam's reappointment as MACC Chief Commissioner for another year. His contract was set to expire on May 12.
Azam was appointed to lead the anti-graft body in 2020, replacing Latheefa Koya. His contract was also extended for one year, last year.