The cabinet had no knowledge about the transfers of two senior MACC officers said Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar.

MACC special operations division Bahri Mohamad Zin and strategic communication director Rohaizad Yaakob were abruptly transferred to the Prime Minister's Department yesterday.

"It happened after the cabinet meeting, so how do we know," Khairy told reporters in a press conference today after opening the delegates meeting of Umno Klang’s women, youth and puteri wings.

Khairy said he would bring the issue to chief secretary to the government Ali Hamsa ( photo ) if the opportunity arose.

"I will ask him why did this happen and if it was appropriate to make this change in the present situation," he said.

Khairy, who had criticised the transfer of the two yesterday, said he did not fear losing his position as happened to former Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin.

 

“I’m not worried because I believe we must stand for what is right, we must stand for what we believe is right, preserve the independence of our institutions and to speak without fear or favour.” 

He also stressed that the MACC must be given the freedom to carry out its duties without hindrance or intimidation.

'Members must speak up'

Meanwhile, Khairy called on Umno members to be brave and speak up to address problems in Umno.

He said party members can express their views through the delegates’ meetings.

"I think if we do not say we have problems, people will laugh at us, for the world knows we are facing a very challenging political situation today.

"Don’t say there are no problems. Together let’s find solutions and restore the dignity of Umno," he said.

Khairy added he believed Umno is currently facing a crisis of confidence.

He said if the grassroots do not voice out that there are problems that must be solved, the leaders will not act to correct the situation.