Gerakan National Deputy President Dato’ Chang Ko Youn today in a statement welcomed the government’s decision in setting up Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate whether procedures adopted by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in investigating the allegations against Teoh Beng Hock was in violation of human rights. He said this shows BN government’s determination in finding out the truth.

“Gerakan’s stand has been clear and consistent. We have long called for an RCI to unearth the circumstances surrounding Beng Hock’s death. In fact we said as much in a statement released right after the coroner announced the verdict,” Chang said.

Chang added, “Whilst the RCI will not look into the cause of death because the law states that must be done via an inquiry, I welcome the decision by the Attorney General to seek a review of the coroner’s decision because an “open verdict” is unacceptable.”

Chang also said the RCI must be comprised of eminent, honest and credible individuals as Malaysians would not accept anything less. He said it is important to ensure the credibility of the RCI process is not comprised in any way.

“The establishment of RCI is evidence of the government’s commitment to the truth and I am certain there is no attempt or intention on the part of the government to conceal anything. I am very encouraged by the open and inclusive attitude adopted by the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in handling this matter. For that, I call on all parties to cease and desist from politicizing this matter as it will benefit no one, “Chang said.

Dato’ Chang added, “The PM has fulfilled to Beng Hock’s family to form a RCI and I hope the RCI will provide the answers they are looking for. I believe, with the establishment of the RCI, we will be able to have a clearer picture of what happened to Beng Hock prior to his death and what lead to his death.”