AG says ex-EC members cannot escape punishment despite resignations
FMT
PETALING JAYA: Attorney-General Tommy Thomas said the outcome of the tribunal to investigate allegations of misconduct by six former Election Commission (EC) members during last year’s general election would not be academic, saying the Constitution provides for appropriate action to be taken against them based on recommendations to the Agong.
“These are very serious charges which, if established, will demonstrate personal culpability on the part of the EC members for the way in which GE-14 was organised,” Thomas said in a statement.
The tribunal has reserved judgment over the case.
It is understood that 13 charges have been framed against the six former EC members in connection with their role in preparing the redelineation report and the manner in which the May 9 polls were conducted.
The six – Othman Mahmood, Md Yusop Mansor, Abdul Aziz Khalidin, Sulaiman Narawi, Bala Singam Karupiah and Leo Chong Cheong – quit shortly after the government’s announcement that a tribunal would be set up to investigate claims of misconduct against them.
Thomas said panel members could also see their pensions and benefits withdrawn.
“The outcome of the tribunal proceedings can potentially have direct financial implications to the EC members’ entitlements to pension and other benefits, which will accrue to them on resignation, but may not be payable if they are removed,” he said.
