The ‘Tangkap Azam Baki’ rally saw strong turnout despite rain, as activists demanded structural reforms and greater transparency.
KUALA LUMPUR: Heavy rain failed to deter hundreds of protesters from gathering in the capital today, as chants of “Tangkap, tangkap Azam Baki” (Arrest Azam Baki) and “Bangkit rakyat” (Rise, people) echoed through the streets.
The turnout appeared more spirited and lively than previous demonstrations held months ago, with supporters braving a persistent downpour to maintain pressure on the government regarding institutional integrity.
The protest coincides with a major leadership transition within the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
Earlier today, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar announced that Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman will assume the role of Chief Commissioner effective May 13.
The outgoing chief, Tan Sri Azam Baki, whose contract expires on May 12, has held the position since March 2020.
His tenure was notably extended beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 through three consecutive one-year contract renewals in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
However, the announced change in leadership has done little to defuse the movement on the ground.
Bersih Chairman Muhammad Faisal Abdul Aziz stated that while the group welcomes the new appointment, the rally’s objectives transcend any single individual.
Participants gathered at the Sogo shopping complex before beginning their march toward Dataran Merdeka.
Organised by a coalition of NGOs, the rally is driven by three core demands – the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate alleged “corporate mafia” influence within enforcement agencies, the arrest of Azam Baki and sweeping structural reforms to the MACC and stronger guarantees for civil society groups, activists, academics and the public to speak out on corruption and misconduct without fear of reprisal.
The demonstration has attracted significant political attention.
Former Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, alongside other PKR backbenchers, is expected to join the rally and deliver a speech.
In a rare show of shared interest on the issue of corruption, youth wings from across the political spectrum are also expected to attend, including the Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY), MCA Youth and members of Pas Youth.
Police presence remains high in the area, though the atmosphere has remained peaceful despite the intensifying rain.
