At a gathering of Teoh’s family and civil society groups tonight, A Jayanath of Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia issued a blunt message to politicians who once stood with the family as they sought justice.
“During a protest for Teoh in 2009, many politicians from the opposition were then present. But tonight I don’t see any of them.
“This is something all of us need to understand – politicians will make use of any issue (for their own benefit),” he said at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall here, where the participants gathered to remember Teoh and demand accountability.
Jayanath challenged those who once pledged support for Teoh to reflect on their role now that they are in government.
He added that many of them had pledged to introduce institutional reforms once in power and ensure justice is served for Teoh.
“I am only making a very short speech — one call to these politicians. Tomorrow morning, can you please look at yourself in the mirror and ask what you are going to do about this?
“We have not seen (your efforts), and we are giving you one last chance to (ensure justice for Teoh).”
Jayanath also called on those attending the gathering to take action by writing to their respective MPs and assemblymen to urge them to raise Teoh’s case in Parliament or the state assemblies.
Last week, the Teoh Beng Hock Association for Democratic Advancement urged all DAP ministers to resign in protest of the Attorney-General’s Chambers’ decision to classify the investigation into Teoh’s case as requiring no further action, or NFA.
The group said the ministers should also take responsibility on behalf of DAP for failing to fulfil the party’s past promises involving Teoh.
None of the DAP ministers have responded to the call yet.
Teoh’s sister, Lee Lan, also did not hold back in her remarks at the gathering, delivering a strong and emotional message to government leaders.
“Back then, all PH leaders told Malaysia that Teoh was murdered and that when they attain power, they will act on the case.
“But why was the investigation classified as NFA? This is a slap in the face for all PH supporters.”
She also reminded Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim that he had promised to ensure justice for Teoh once appointed to the top post.
Last month, Teoh’s family was informed by police that their latest investigation into the case had been classified as NFA.
Teoh was found dead on July 16, 2009 on the fifth floor of Plaza Masalam, Shah Alam, after being questioned for hours by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). An inquest was held and the coroner returned an open verdict.
However, the Court of Appeal in 2014 ruled that Teoh’s death was caused by “one or more persons unknown”, including MACC officers.
While the police’s latest investigation was classified as NFA, several quarters have questioned why the probe was launched under Section 342 of the Penal Code, which is for wrongful confinement.