Malaysia on Saturday appointed a former judge as its new anti-corruption chief in an unprecedented move, as the government seeks to calm months of political turbulence over alleged misconduct linked to the watchdog’s outgoing head.

Allies and opponents have hit out against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim since February following reports claiming that Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) boss Azam Baki was involved in a share ownership scandal and the agency’s officers were allegedly working with a “corporate mafia” to pressure businesses into deals.

Azam and the MACC have denied any wrongdoing, calling the media reports “malicious”.

The government on Saturday said former High Court judge Abdul Halim Aman will begin his duties as MACC chief commissioner on May 13, a day after Azam’s contract ends.

“The government is confident that with his wide experience and high integrity, he will be able to strengthen efforts to improve [the agency’s] management, raise public confidence and bolster the anti-corruption agenda,” it said in a statement, hours before a protest in Kuala Lumpur demanding Azam’s removal.

On Friday, Anwar said a shortlist of candidates was already presented to King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar for his consideration.