KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 27 ― DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang called for the set-up of an international inquiry panel into the slaying of former deputy public prosecutor (DPP) Anthony Kevin Morais after one of the latter’s brothers alleged a link to high-ranking government officials.

The opposition lawmaker described it as a “golden opportunity” for Malaysia to rebuild its reputation, which he said had been dented by a number of recent controversies that concerned the rule of law in the country.

“If there is no basis whatsoever to the shocking allegations in Charles’ statutory declaration in connection with the equally shocking murder of Kevin, an independent international inquiry into the killing of Kevin would clear and go a long way to rehabilitate Malaysia’s good name and integrity, especially in the important areas of law enforcement and the upholding of the rule of law,” the Gelang Patah MP said in a statement.

He urged the federal government to push for the international inquiry to “restore national and international confidence in the Malaysian system of justice”.

Charles Suresh Morais, brother to the slain government lawyer, had alleged to have received a pen drive containing confidential investigation information involving “personalities who currently walk the corridors of power in Malaysia” some two months ago.

Charles, who currently resides in the US, told a news conference here on Wednesday he was convinced his brother’s investigation was related to his abduction on September 4, and subsequent murder.

However, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar has voiced scepticism on the allegations and warned Charles yesterday not to make baseless accusation as the police know his background.

Several news agencies reported earlier today another Morais sibling -- Datuk Richard Morais -- also pouring cold water on Charles’ claims.

Lim defended Charles today, saying the latter knew the risks he was getting himself into when he opted to sign the 18-page sworn statement.

“Either Charles is an inveterate liar and big-time moneygrubber or he was speaking what he perceived to be the truth, and his preparedness to take the risk of an expose and demonisation  of his past and even character-assassination are points to his credit in his agony over what he should do to protect the memory of his brother,” he added.