Why is Mahathir accused of crime over Batu Puteh loss?

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Mahathir Accused of Crime Over Batu Puteh Loss Due to RCI Recommendation on Withdrawing ICJ Review Application

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is facing a recommended criminal investigation stemming from his 2018 decision to withdraw Malaysia's application to review the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) ruling on Batu Puteh. The Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) into the matter concluded that this action warranted a criminal probe against him under specific sections of the Penal Code, while also noting the statute of limitations prevented a civil suit. Dr Mahathir, however, has vehemently denied wrongdoing, alleging the RCI was politically motivated to target him and assign sole blame for Malaysia's loss of claim over the island.
RCI Recommends Criminal Investigation Under Penal Code

The RCI report, which spans 217 pages, specifically recommended that a criminal investigation be initiated against Dr Mahathir under Sections 415(b) and 418 of the Penal Code. These recommendations arise from his role in withdrawing Malaysia's application to review the ICJ's 2008 decision concerning Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks, and South Ledge. While the RCI did not pursue a civil suit for misfeasance in public office, citing the six-year limitation period, its focus on criminal proceedings highlights the gravity with which the inquiry viewed his actions.
Mahathir Claims RCI Targeted Him and Ignored Cabinet's Role

Dr Mahathir contends that the RCI proceedings were conducted in secrecy and were designed to frame him as solely responsible for the outcome regarding Batu Puteh. He asserts that the decision to withdraw the ICJ review application was discussed and briefed in the Cabinet at the time, and therefore, all Cabinet members present should also be held accountable or called as witnesses. He specifically named several former ministers, including Datuk Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, and Lim Guan Eng, who were present in that meeting and questioned their subsequent silence.
Dispute Over Cabinet Consultation and RCI Findings

The former prime minister stated that he consulted the Cabinet and experts before making decisions, and that the Cabinet had the opportunity to rebut his proposals if they disagreed. He expressed surprise that the RCI report had 47 blanked-out pages, suggesting that crucial information was deliberately hidden. Dr Mahathir believes the RCI's objective was to find fault with him personally, rather than to address the collective responsibility of the Cabinet, and suggested the commission selectively called witnesses to achieve a predetermined outcome.
Mahathir Denies Working for Singapore and Expresses Integrity

Dr Mahathir asserted that he never worked for Singapore and has historically maintained a difficult stance with the nation. He acknowledged that the ICJ's ruling on Batu Puteh must be accepted, as the court ultimately decided the island belonged to Singapore, while Middle Rocks went to Malaysia, and South Ledge's ownership was contingent on territorial water delimitation. He further stated his readiness to face any investigation, emphasizing his integrity during his two terms as Prime Minister and challenging accusers to prove any financial impropriety.

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Why is Mahathir accused of crime over Batu Puteh loss?

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