KUALA LUMPUR – Issues involving corruption, criminal breach of trust and abuse of power should not be viewed merely as political polemics, but as serious matters that affect the interests of the people as a whole, said Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
Speaking at the "Tangkap Azam Baki" rally along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman on Saturday, Rafizi said allowing corruption to continue unchecked would mean allowing money to buy everything, including justice within the country’s system.
He said this would deny ordinary people their right to fair treatment and justice.
"If corruption, criminal breach of trust and abuse of power are allowed to continue, then this is no longer an issue involving politicians alone, but an issue affecting society and the rakyat.
"If we allow corruption, it means we allow money to buy anything," he said.
Rafizi also said there is a public perception that those with power and influence are subject to a different set of rules than ordinary citizens.
He said his experience in government gave him firsthand insight into how such a culture can shape the administrative system.
"We are living in a system where those with power and money have different rules from ordinary people.
"When we try to change it, there will be pressure and the system will be used to silence dissent," he said.
He described the rally as a reflection of the courage of the people, particularly the younger generation, who continue to speak out on issues of integrity and governance.
He said the presence of people from different political backgrounds showed that the issue goes beyond party lines.
"Today, we gather here from various parties and backgrounds. This is not about politics, this is about the people," he said.
Rafizi added that while the public may differ in opinion on policies and governance, there should be no compromise when it comes to justice and rejecting corruption.
"If the system cannot deliver justice, then it is our duty to speak up," he said.
He also called for an independent investigation into allegations related to corporate mafia activities that have surfaced in recent months.
Rafizi added that such a move is necessary to ensure that public confidence in the justice and enforcement system does not continue to erode.