Aliran views with deep concern Inspector General of Police Hamid Bador’s damning revelation of Home Minister Hamzah Zainuddin’s political interference in the affairs of the police force.
Such blatant interference compromises the professionalism, independence and integrity of the police force – a factor that has been a longstanding issue for the public.
Hamzah’s recent alleged meddling in the new appointments and transfers of police personnel that Hamid had executed is of grave concern as it affects the professionalisation of the force.
Hamzah should not head the Police Force Commission (SPP) to ensure transparency and independence in the force.
The force must cease being turned into a convenient political tool of the government of the day.
As it is, Hamid’s earlier revelation of the existence of so-called cartels within the police force has already cast doubt on the integrity of the force.
We call on the government to establish an independent royal commission of inquiry to look into this serious development as well as custodial abuse, brutality and deaths.
We also call for the much-delayed independent police complaints of misconduct commission (IPCMC) to be set up immediately to uphold the integrity and dignity of the force.
Aliran executive committee1 May 2021
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