![Fly AirAsia from Kuala Lumpur](https://cdn.suara.my/assets/20240814024029/banner_autumn_AA.jpg)
PETALING JAYA: CSO Platform for Reform has urged Datuk Hasnal Rezua Merican Habib Merican to step down from his position in the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) following his candidature in the state election.
The advocacy group has called for Hasnal Rezua to immediately vacate his post as Suhakam commissioner after being named as Umno’s candidate for the Kuang seat in Selangor.
“The presence of Hasnal Rezua, a political leader in Suhakam, is a concern since his party is part of the Federal Government,” CSO Platform for Reform stated on Tuesday (July 25).
The group expressed further concern over the potential for a conflict of interest and also urged scrutiny of the appointment of new commissioners last year.
Furthermore, CSO Platform for Reform maintains that political leaders should not be appointed as Suhakam commissioners in order for the commission to remain independent.
“Suhakam must be free from any political and executive influence. Suhakam’s main function is to uphold the principle of accountability and respect for human rights. Thus, the involvement of a politician raises concerns that these functions can be affected,” the group concluded.
Credit: The Star : News Feed