Malaysia , May 9, 2024 The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has confirmed an ongoing investigation involving Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad, regarding allegations of corruption linked to his sons.
Azam Baki, the chief commissioner of MACC, revealed on Thursday that Mahathir is among the individuals under scrutiny in the corruption probe, indicating a widening investigation into the allegations.
Addressing reporters in the state of Kelantan, Azam emphasized the need for the investigations to conclude before any official statements on the findings can be made.
Meanwhile, representatives for Mahathir declined to offer comments on the matter, maintaining a stance of non-engagement with ongoing investigations.
The investigation into Mahathir’s affairs gained momentum in January when the MACC instructed his two eldest sons, Mirzan Mahathir and Mokhzani Mahathir, to disclose their assets following revelations from the Pandora and Panama Papers leaks.
Mahathir, a prominent figure in Malaysian politics, has a history of vocal opposition against corruption, often targeting his political adversaries, including current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who has faced Mahathir’s criticism on various fronts.
Anwar, who previously served as Mahathir’s deputy and later faced imprisonment, refutes claims of leveraging anticorruption initiatives for political gain, asserting his commitment to upholding justice impartially.
In a related development, the MACC pressed charges against Daim Zainuddin, a former finance minister and ally of Mahathir, along with his spouse, for alleged failure to disclose assets.
Mokhzani Mahathir, Mahathir’s second-eldest son, disclosed in a recent interview with Bloomberg News that his father is considered the primary focus of the investigation.
