|
Transparency
International Malaysia (TI-M) calls for Tan Sri Dompok to reconsider
his resignation as Chairman of the PSCI.
17th
May 2007 by Tan
Sri (Dr) Ramon V. Navaratnam, President TI-M
TI-M
deeply regrets the resignation of Tan Sri Bernard Dompok as Chairman
of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Integrity (PSCI). It appears
that his resignation is related to the non-attendance of the National
Registration Department (NRD) to a hearing to clarify certain issues
pertaining to the issuance of identity cards in Sabah.
It
is a serious matter and indicates an unbecoming attitude of an agency
when a meeting called by the Parliamentary Select committee can be
rejected. This is also disrespectful to Parliament and reflects the
standard and quality of administration of this country.
TI-M
appeals for the government to request for Tan Sri Dompok to return to
the position as chairman of the PSCI and the NRD to be held
accountable for issuance of identity cards in Sabah where there is
apparent widespread abuse. Tough disciplinary action must be taken
against individuals and agencies that do not heed parliamentary
meetings seriously.
The
question at hand is the improvement of good governance,
accountability and transparency in the public delivery system, as it
has been strongly urged by the Prime Minister of Malaysia. If the
attitude shown towards Tan Sri Dompok is deemed permissible, it would
be extremely difficult to make further progress in improving the
delivery system and the overall efficiency of government in the
future.
The
integrity, accountability and transparency of our government will be
open to wide speculation, doubt and unfavorable comment, both
domestically and internationally, if this matter is not treated with
seriousness and utmost priority as this matter has led to an impasse
to the problems of illegal immigrants and foreigners.
Public
opinion at home and abroad will be adversely affected if prompt
action is not taken to improve the integrity, accountability and
transparency of the public administration in our country. TI-M urges
the government to strengthen its commitment to promote good
governance, transparency, accountability and to enhance integrity in
all aspects of government.
|