Pejuang wants IGP to stay on amid claims govt installing 'own boys'
Pejuang is calling for Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador, whose contract expires next month, to be retained in the top post amid claims the government was trying to install its favoured candidates in the police force.
The party’s legal bureau, called Peguam Pejuang, cited a video that claimed a minister had discussed installing his “own boys” in the force...
Pejuang is calling for Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador, whose contract expires next month, to be retained in the top post amid claims the government was trying to install its favoured candidates in the police force.
The party’s legal bureau, called Peguam Pejuang, cited a video that claimed a minister had discussed installing his “own boys” in the force.
“The video has yet to be verified but considering the previous complaints by senior police officers, it is concerning that this matter has yet to be resolved,” it said in a statement.
Hamid previously revealed that Hamzah had intervened in the transfer of senior police officers, which comes under the IGP’s jurisdiction.
Hamzah denied he had interfered in the police force, stating that the decision was not his but that of the Police Force Commission, which he chairs.
Malaysiakini reached out to Hamzah’s office about the video and an aide said the matter was being looked at.
Even though Hamid is due to retire in May, Peguam Pejuang referred to Section 15 of the Police Act 1967, which should allow him to stay on.
Section 15 states: “No police officer may retire or resign from the force during war or whilst a proclamation of emergency is in force”.
An exemption can be provided by the IGP but the legislation does not provide details if it involves the top cop himself.
However, Peguam Pejuang argued the provision should also apply to all police officers.
“The IGP’s tenure should be protected, especially when it is the government’s own choice to declare an emergency,” it said.
“Peguam Pejuang stresses that political interference in the police force should not happen.
“The IGP’s role and duties as the commanding officer should not be obstructed, including by politicians,” it said.
It also urged the government to abide by the rule of law.
Previously, Hamid in an interview with Sinar Harian had also claimed there was a “cartel” within the police force trying to position themselves in key posts.
He did not provide details but in the interview stated it was intended to facilitate the carrying out of “dirty work”.
Last month, Hamid called out “traitors” among the men in blue for their involvement with an underworld gang. Its leader, Nicky Liow, is on the run.
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