There is nothing further to explain, said former attorney-general (AG) Abu Talib Othman today, in rejecting an "invitation" for him to meet with current AG Mohamed Apandi Ali.

"I am not answerable to him. I am free to exercise my constitutional right to comment on a case that is of great public interest, so long as I do not cross the limit of freedom of speech," Abu Talib told Malaysiakini .

Apandi had in an interview with Sin Chew Daily said he was "confused" by Abu Talib's criticisms over his decision to close cases involving Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Apandi also said that he based his actions on what he had learnt from Abu Talib as his predecessor.

Abu Talib, however, stressed that he stands by his comments on Apandi's credibility to clear Najib based on investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on RM42 million from SRC International and the RM2.6 billion donation deposited into the premier's personal account.

"In any event, my comment is clear and made in good faith.

"However, if he wants to learn more, then he is welcomed to see me," Abu Talib pointed out.

Commenting further, Abu Talib said the public is unlikely to question his decision if Apandi had given his full cooperation to assist MACC’s probe.

“As it stands today, his decision appears to be questionable and cast a negative perception on his impartiality and commitment to justice, as well as the rule of law,” said Abu Talib.

MACC deputy commissioner (operations) Shukri Abdull had on Dec 31 last year submitted two investigation papers to the Attorney-General’s Chambers, with recommended actions to be taken.

At the time, Shukri had said MACC’s investigation of the RM2.6 billion donation was “ incomplete ” as it still required documents and statements from several overseas financial institutions.

Apandi returned the probe papers to MACC for clarification but later said he was “ satisfied ” that the RM2.6 billion sum was a personal donation.

He also said there was no need to make a request for mutual legal assistance for the purpose of completing the investigation.

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