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Probe contents of document in JAC minutes leak too, urges Ramkarpal

Probe contents of document in JAC minutes leak too, urges Ramkarpal

KUALA LUMPUR: Authorities must not only investigate the leak of the Judicial Appointments Committee (JAC) meeting minutes but also urgently examine the contents of the document, which contains allegations of judicial interference, said Bukit Gelugor member of parliament Ramkarpal Singh.
He said the focus should not merely be on identifying how the document was leaked but, more importantly, whether the claims contained within it were authentic and credible.
"Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said that investigations are underway under Section 8 of the Official Secrets Act 1972, Section 203A of the Penal Code (disclosure of information obtained during the performance of one's duties), and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (improper use of network facilities).
"However, his statement made no mention of the elephant in the room, namely whether the allegations of judicial interference in the said leaked minutes will be thoroughly investigated as well," Ramkarpal said in a statement.
He said that Khalid's response appears to confirm the authenticity of the leaked minutes , which in itself strengthens the need for a full investigation into the issues raised.
"The allegations are deeply troubling as they strike at the very foundation of judicial integrity. The public deserves to know if they are true."
Ramkarpal said the government could not afford to appear indifferent and must demonstrate a strong commitment to upholding the independence and credibility of the judiciary.
He also raised concerns over the impending appointments of several top judicial positions, which he said are made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the prime minister after consulting the Conference of Rulers, in line with Article 122B(1) of the Federal Constitution.
"In light of the serious allegations made against a judge mentioned in the leaked minutes, the prime minister should not consider the judge for any of the four key posts unless and until the allegations have been fully investigated and resolved."
He said if any wrongdoing was established, the judge's integrity would be severely compromised, making it inappropriate for him or her to be elevated.
"The position demands a thorough and transparent investigation, and anything less may result in a serious loss of confidence in the Madani government, which should be avoided."
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