PM: No decision yet on Azam's contract

Summary

• Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim denies reports claiming he has decided to extend MACC chief Azam Baki’s contract, which ends in May.

• Bloomberg earlier reported a likely six-month extension and alleged a deal between Anwar and Azam, which both parties deny.

There has been no decision yet regarding MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki’s tenure, which is due to expire in May.

Free Malaysia Today quoted Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim dismissing a report claiming that he is set to extend Azam’s contract by six months.

“If a decision has been made, I will announce it. Anyway, his contract is not over yet,” he was quoted as telling reporters in Kajang.

Yesterday, Bloomberg quoted sources claiming that Anwar is set to extend Azam’s contract and is likely to make the announcement in early May, though plans could still change.

The report also purported that Anwar discussed with officials that giving Azam a full-year extension could fuel criticism against the government.

“Four people familiar with the situation, who asked not to be identified discussing confidential matters, said at the time that both MACC officials and political allies of the prime minister were under the impression that the two men had reached an understanding - Azam would have his term extended as MACC chief commissioner in return for taking action against Anwar’s opponents.

“Azam and Anwar denied they had an understanding and said the MACC operates independently of the prime minister,” the report added.

Report: Azam poised for hat-trick extension under Anwar

Sabah corruption: Another round of MACC questioning for reps

Better to close MACC than probe based on public opinion, Azam tells critics

UiTM appoints Azam Baki as adjunct professor

MACC probes Sapura Energy over claims of bribery, misappropriation

C4 slams Azam for naming Sabah whistleblower