We’re calling on the Malaysian government to seize a historic opportunity to implement much-needed police reforms and finally establish the IPCMC first envisioned 15 years ago. #IPCMCNOW
Let's answer some basic questions about it.
First off: what is the IPCMC anyway?
IPCMC stands for the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission. Here's some history about its recommendation, initially put forward 15 years ago.
Do we need the IPCMC? What does police abuse in Malaysia look like?
There were 1,654 deaths in custody (including police) between 2010 - Feb 2017.
Yet, between 2010-2018, only 9 officers were charged for negligence or causing injuries/death. Of these, 2 police officers were convicted for minor offences -- the rest were acquitted.
Are there any mechanisms that keeps police accountable for misconduct now?
We have something called the EAIC -- but looks over 21 government agencies, lacks disciplinary and punitive powers, and can only make non-binding recommendations and referrals.
Basically: it's not enough.
Is there still a chance to pass the bill now?
Yes.
The bill *was* planned to be tabled and voted on in the March 2020 parliamentary session, but political events resulted in uncertainty over the bill's future.
Still, the new government has an opportunity to table the bill in the upcoming July session.
Do you have any other questions about the IPCMC? #IPCMCNOW
Share this Scrolly Tale with your friends.
A Scrolly Tale is a new way to read Twitter threads with a more visually immersive experience.
Discover more beautiful Scrolly Tales like this.