Bersatu Considers Further Legal Action Against MACC and Banks Over Frozen Accounts
Party President Muhyiddin Yassin Speaks Out Against “Oppressive and Unjust” Action
SHAH ALAM: Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin has expressed his frustration and disappointment over the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) decision to freeze the party’s accounts for over a year. Speaking after Bersatu’s general assembly today, Muhyiddin said that the party is considering further legal action against the MACC and banks for their actions.
Legal Violation and Contravention of the Federal Constitution
Muhyiddin contended that freezing Bersatu’s accounts for over 12 months without charging the party in court constitutes a legal violation and contravenes the Federal Constitution. “This action is oppressive and unjust,” he said. “Bersatu is a sizeable political organisation. How are we to survive if the government acts this way?”
Background to the Investigation
Two Bersatu accounts were frozen on January 12 and 13, 2023, and later reported to have been seized by MACC on April 11, 2023, as part of the agency’s investigation into the party. The probe is linked to the alleged misappropriation of funds for Covid-19 stimulus packages amounting to RM92.5 billion by the former Perikatan Nasional-led government.
Bersatu’s Legal Challenge
Bersatu later filed an application in the High Court to challenge the MACC over the freezing of its accounts, accusing it of abusing its powers to conduct “selective prosecution” against PN. Muhyiddin said that the party’s lawyers recently attended a court hearing during which the judge postponed making a ruling on Bersatu’s bid to challenge MACC’s decision to freeze its funds. The next hearing is scheduled for January 23, 2025.
Conclusion
The freezing of Bersatu’s accounts has caused significant financial difficulties for the party, which is struggling to survive. Muhyiddin’s comments highlight the party’s frustration and disappointment with the MACC’s actions, and the need for a resolution to this issue. The party’s legal challenge will continue, with the aim of securing a fair and just outcome.
FAQs
Q: Why was Bersatu’s accounts frozen by the MACC?
A: The MACC froze Bersatu’s accounts as part of an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds for Covid-19 stimulus packages.
Q: How long has Bersatu’s accounts been frozen?
A: Bersatu’s accounts have been frozen for over 12 months.
Q: What is Bersatu’s legal challenge against the MACC?
A: Bersatu is challenging the MACC’s decision to freeze its accounts, accusing it of abusing its powers to conduct “selective prosecution” against PN.
Q: What is the next step in the legal challenge?
A: The next hearing is scheduled for January 23, 2025.