The contradictions in Anwar’s integrity narrative

The alleged involvement of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s senior political secretary, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, and his subsequent resignation are two sides of the same coin.

Anwar described Shamsul’s resignation as evidence of the government’s commitment to integrity and the rule of law.

If this is considered an example of integrity, then from now on, integrity should be measured only when individuals in government service resign after being exposed for corruption.

This is similar to Anwar’s infamous dictum that corruption can be excused if those involved return the money.

For Anwar, the act of corruption is not inherently wrong, as long as those involved submit their resignations and, if possible, return their ill-gotten wealth.

Rather than condemning Shamsul’s actions, Anwar chose to praise him, saying that his resignation was a sign of government integrity.

By condoning the diabolical act of corruption and undermining good governance, Anwar has indirectly praised the wrongdoers.

If we have a prime minister like him, is it any wonder that corruption in the country continues to rear its ugly head?

Anwar takes pride in calling himself an anti-corruption crusader, claiming that MACC managed to recover billions of ringgit lost to corruption.

However, he fails to disclose that prosecutions for corruption seem to be directed mainly at those in opposition to the government.

If Anwar had used MACC to investigate and prosecute without fear or favour, more funds would have accrued to government coffers.

Unfortunately, MACC, being beholden to the executive (namely Anwar), functions as a political instrument of the executive.

I really wonder how MACC can act without fear or favour in the case of Shamsul and businessman Albert Tei if there are rumours of a secret meeting between Shamsul and MACC chief Azam Baki.

Whether the meeting took place or not, the fact that there are speculations and rumours about it is enough to suggest that MACC has lost its mandate to investigate the mining scandal in Sabah.