Did Muhyiddin Yassin directly appoint Azam Baki as MACC chief?

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Muhyiddin Yassin Did Not Directly Appoint Azam Baki as MACC Chief Commissioner

Former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has stated that he did not directly appoint Tan Sri Azam Baki as the chief commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). Muhyiddin clarified that Azam's name was put forward as a recommendation by the Chief Secretary to the Government at the time, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali. This statement comes amidst questions raised by Pengerang MP Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said regarding background checks conducted prior to Azam's appointment in March 2020.
Azam Baki's Appointment Process

The appointment of the MACC chief commissioner falls under Section 5 of the MACC Act 2009. According to this section, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong appoints the chief commissioner on the advice of the Prime Minister. Muhyiddin indicated that his role was to accept the recommendation from the Chief Secretary's committee, rather than making a direct personal selection. This process highlights the formal channels through which such high-level appointments are typically made within the government structure.
Reappointment Under Statutory Provisions

Azam Baki was recently reappointed as the MACC chief commissioner for a one-year term, effective May 12. This reappointment was made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, acting on the Prime Minister's advice, as stipulated by Section 5(2) of the MACC Act 2009. This particular subsection addresses the reappointment of a chief commissioner who has reached the compulsory retirement age of 60, allowing for a contract extension.
Questions Regarding Due Diligence

The exchange has also brought to light concerns about the due diligence undertaken during the initial appointment process. Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said specifically questioned whether Muhyiddin Yassin had conducted the necessary background checks before Azam's appointment in March 2020. While Muhyiddin has clarified his indirect involvement, the issue of thorough vetting for such critical positions remains a subject of public discussion.

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Did Muhyiddin Yassin directly appoint Azam Baki as MACC chief?

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