Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: Reuters

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized that he does not interfere in judicial matters, including the appointment of judges or decisions made by the courts.

He stated that all appointments and extensions of service for judges must follow the procedures outlined in the Federal Constitution.

Speaking at a gathering with staff from the Prime Minister's Department on Monday, June 30, Anwar explained that the process is clear under the Constitution. He said the commission proposes names, which are then submitted to the Prime Minister and forwarded to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, before being brought to the Conference of Rulers for discussion.

Anwar stressed that appointments or extensions influenced by any group would damage the integrity of the judiciary. He added that such matters should not become political issues or be evaluated based on sentiments from certain groups.

He noted that in the current political climate, decisions to extend or not extend an individual's service are often used by some parties to gauge loyalty.
He said there should not be campaigning or political pressure in the process of appointing civil servants, including judges. According to him, if a senior civil servant campaigns for an extension and it is not granted, one side calls it betrayal, and if it is granted, another side calls it betrayal.

Anwar also commented on high-profile cases involving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman. Najib recently received a discharge not amounting to an acquittal in his RM27 million SRC International money laundering case. Meanwhile, Syed Saddiq was discharged and acquitted of four charges, including criminal breach of trust involving Bersatu Youth funds.

He said that when Najib received a DNAA, he was accused of interference, and when Syed Saddiq was acquitted, he was also accused of interference from another side. Anwar stressed that he does not interfere and respects all decisions made by judges.

He added that he avoids meeting senior judges except for the Chief Justice to prevent any misunderstanding. He stated that in all meetings with the Chief Justice, he never discussed judicial matters.

Anwar shared his own experience of facing investigations and trials in the past that did not follow fair procedures. He said he was arrested before any police report was lodged against him and that such mistakes should not be repeated.

He called on all parties to defend the judicial institution and public service without being influenced by political sentiments or the interests of certain groups. He said the government respects all views but will always follow legal processes and principles.

Earlier reports stated that Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat will retire on Wednesday, July 2, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 66, with her last day of service on Tuesday, July 1. However, questions remain on whether her term will be extended.