We, the undersigned civil society organisations (CSOs) say “NO” to the “lame duck” Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) on the late Teoh Beng Hock which Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak intends to set up.
We demand that the RCI to be given specific and comprehensive Terms of Reference [TOR] to clear all doubts pertaining to Beng Hock’s mysterious and torturous death.
a. Investigating thoroughly and identifying the cause of Beng Hock’s death, especially identifying the cause of bruise which appeared on his neck.
b. Reviewing and reforming the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) investigation protocols to be in line with human rights standards and international best practices.
d. Investigating into other allegations of torture, illegal detention and other misconducts by MACC if and when necessary and proposing reforms in the formal procedures of and actual practices in MACC investigation and interrogation.
In upholding the cardinal principle of transparency, we demand that the Report of the RCI and all related documents be made available to the public, without conditions.
In order to show his sincerity in seeking the truth and justice, the Prime Minister has to ensure transparency and independence in the selection and appointment of RCI members.
The selection panel must include representatives of the Teoh family, Bar Council, Selangor State Government and human rights community to ensure full consultation and credibility.
Has relevant experience in the area of human rights, law enforcement, judiciary and non-governmental activism.
A medical professional upon consultation of Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), its ex-president Dr Ronald McCoy (a human rights defender) and other members of the medical community.
We urge the Federal Government not to finalise the RCI and announce its membership without consulting the Teoh family, Bar Council, Selangor State Government and human rights community. Otherwise, the RCI will be seen as a public relations exercise of the Federal Government, with its independence and credibility called into question even before embarking on its task.
Another Death at MACC! Civil Society Organisations demand Immediate Investigation and Justice!