Why is MACC urged to probe PM and PAS minister over DPM deal?

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MACC Urged to Investigate PM and PAS Minister Over Alleged Secret Deputy Prime Minister Deal

Federal Opposition lawmaker Lim Guan Eng has called for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and PAS minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan. The basis for this call is an alleged secret agreement to appoint a deputy prime minister from the Bersatu party, which Lim contends constitutes an abuse of power and a misuse of ministerial position for political gain rather than national interest.
Allegations of Power Abuse and Misuse of Ministerial Position

Lim Guan Eng's demand for an investigation stems from Takiyuddin Hassan's admission to having drafted a "memorandum of agreement" in August 2021 between the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition and Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob concerning the position of deputy prime minister. Lim specifically highlighted that Takiyuddin drafted this agreement in his capacity as the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law), not on behalf of his party. This, according to Lim, signifies an abuse of power, as ministerial responsibilities were allegedly used for the private political benefit of the prime minister and the PN coalition, rather than for the nation's interests.
Questioning the Legitimacy and Constitutionality of the Deal

A key point raised by Lim Guan Eng is the alleged private benefit derived by Ismail Sabri and the PN coalition from this purported deal. He criticises current government leaders for treating public positions as personal property. Furthermore, Takiyuddin himself acknowledged that the position of deputy prime minister is not provided for in the Federal Constitution. This raises questions about the legitimacy and constitutional basis of any such agreement concerning the appointment to a non-existent constitutional post.
Doubts on MACC's Independence

Lim Guan Eng has also voiced skepticism regarding the MACC's independence in handling this matter. He questioned whether the commission would proceed with an investigation into the Prime Minister and a sitting minister, or if it would act as a "political tool" to be wielded by the current government. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the impartiality and effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies when high-ranking political figures are involved.
Contradictory Statements Regarding the Deal

The alleged secret deal has been subject to conflicting statements. While PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang had previously denied the existence of such an agreement, he later conceded that discussions for a deputy prime minister position had occurred when Ismail Sabri took over as prime minister from Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. However, Hadi maintained that no official agreement was ever finalised, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.

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Why is MACC urged to probe PM and PAS minister over DPM deal?

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