Even so, the best way for the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) to act would be to audit the lifestyle of the suspects, added Mahathir. “Are they living within their means?”
“If it was beyond their means, a thorough investigation must be made on all sources of income of the suspect.”
Although the MACC was free and can investigate even the Prime Minister, an unscrupulous office holder can frustrate the Commission in many ways, he warned. “The Malaysian Prime Minister, Ministers and high officials are not very highly paid but with all the perks such as housing, payment of water and electricity bills, traveling allowances, motorcars and even aeroplanes, they can have a decent life in keeping with their official status.”
However, if their lifestyle was lavish, then it’s a different matter, said Mahathir. He cited owning luxurious homes and mansions in the country and abroad, buying high priced things, personal entertainment, very lavish weddings etc. “If they have money in the banks or elsewhere very much in excess of their sources of income, then it can safely be assumed that they may be in receipt of illegal gratification.”
“The source of great wealth needs to be investigated by the authorities and institutions in the country.”
The Inland Revenue Board, another example, was set up as an independent authority so that it can act without fear or favour, continued Mahathir. “It’s within its right to investigate everyone including the Prime Minister.”
The former Prime Minister charged that of late there has been signs of clear interference with the MACC. “Also, the Inland Revenue Board appeared not to be doing their duty in a case involving the Prime Minister, principally the ownership of the RM2.6 billion in his private accounts in Ambank.”
“This amount was obviously beyond what a Prime Minister of Malaysia can have. Investigations need to be made.”
Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak believes that “Cash is King”, lamented Mahathir. “This is just another name for influencing decisions on the basis of money to be gained for the decision-makers.”
Mahathir conceded that Malaysia was fortunate in that officers in government are professionals. “They do not get involved in politics. They simply take orders from the elected government.
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