Malaysian Bar seeks clarification on senior judge misconduct claim

New Straits Times

5 hours ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Bar has expressed grave concern over a media report alleging that a senior judge was questioned by the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) over possible interference in judicial affairs.
Its president, Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab, said that if the report is accurate, it raises serious concerns about the integrity and independence of the judiciary, which must remain free from any form of influence or manipulation.
"Allegations of judicial interference go beyond the scope of a mere disciplinary matter. They strike at the heart of public confidence in the administration of justice.
"This issue is not only about propriety but also about the structural integrity and independence of our judiciary," he said in a statement today.
He said the Bar would apply for the release of the minutes from the JAC meeting where the judge was allegedly questioned.
"This is necessary to establish the facts, preserve institutional integrity, and ensure that any corrective action needed is taken without compromising legal principles.
"Judicial independence is non-negotiable. It is a constitutional guarantee and a pillar of our democratic framework," he said, adding that if the report is inaccurate, a prompt clarification is equally important to prevent unjust harm to the judiciary's reputation.
The Malaysian Bar also called on all institutions involved to handle the matter with the seriousness it warrants.
"We reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and the protection of judicial independence, without fear or favour," he said.
Earlier, a group representing civil society and legal figures called for a Federal Court judge, who is at the centre of serious misconduct allegations, to recuse himself from hearing any appeals or applications until a police investigation is completed.
The Sekretariat Pertahan Sistem Kehakiman said the judge should step aside in view of the claims, which cast doubt on his impartiality and risk undermining public confidence in the judiciary.
The group issued its statement following the circulation of a police report alleging that the judge had tried to influence the Chief Justice to rule in favour of a particular party.
It was further claimed that the judge had requested the transfer of a High Court judge who had presided over a case and disagreed with his views.
The judge has also been named in a leave application to initiate committal proceedings and has been reported to the authorities for possible offences under Sections 204 and 209 of the Penal Code.
The allegations are linked to the case commonly referred to as the Najib Razak Addendum Decree.
The group said police must be allowed to investigate without interference from any party.