MACC clears judge Nazlan

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has cleared judge Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali following its investigation into allegations of corruption and conflict of interest in handling the case of Najib Razak, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar told the Dewan Negara today that MACC also found no criminal elements in its investigation of Nazlan, adding that the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) agreed.

He said MACC had initiated an investigation as soon as they received a report alleging the existence of criminal elements involving the judge.

"MACC conducted a thorough investigation and found no criminal elements, and this was approved by AGC," he said in response to a question from Senator Kesavadas A Achyuthan Nair.

Nazlan, who currently serves as a Court of Appeal judge, convicted Najib on seven charges of breach of trust, abuse of power and money laundering involving RM42 million from SRC International Sdn Bhd (SRC) funds on July 28, 2020.

Najib was sentenced to 12 years' jail and fined RM210 million.

Kesavadas also questioned the seriousness of the anti-graft agency in investigating corruption and abuse of power issues involving leaders, especially former prime ministers.

Anwar emphasised that MACC must carry out its responsibilities and duties independently and impartially, including when conducting investigations into political figures and former leaders.

He added that people who perceive MACC's investigations as politically motivated should base their opinions on facts rather than purely political sentiments to avoid confusing the public.

"If there are high-profile cases with strong grounds for prosecution based on the investigation, it is the responsibility of MACC and AGC," he added.