FridayOL

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly urged all parties to respect the established process for judicial appointments, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Speaking on Friday (July 11), Anwar underscored the importance of upholding this process and cautioned against any interference or attempts to undermine the independence of the judiciary.

His statement comes amidst ongoing discussions and scrutiny surrounding the appointment of judges in Malaysia. Anwar emphasized that the appointment procedure is carefully defined within the Federal Constitution to ensure fairness, impartiality, and the integrity of the judicial system.

“It is crucial that everyone respects the process outlined in the Federal Constitution. This is not a matter for public debate or speculation; it is a legal framework designed to safeguard the independence of our courts,” Anwar stated. He added that any attempts to influence or politicize judicial appointments are detrimental to the rule of law and the foundation of a democratic society.

The Prime Minister’s remarks highlight the delicate balance between transparency and judicial independence. While public interest in the judiciary is understandable, it’s vital to avoid actions that could compromise the impartial decision-making process. He further elaborated, “If there are concerns or grievances regarding the process, these should be addressed through the appropriate legal channels, not through public statements or pressure campaigns.”

This call for respect for the judicial appointment process is seen as a reaffirmation of Anwar’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of Malaysia's judicial system. Experts suggest that his statement is a direct response to recent debates and perceived attempts to influence the appointment selection.

The Federal Constitution outlines a specific process for judicial appointments, typically involving recommendations from the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King). This process is designed to ensure that appointments are based on merit, experience, and suitability for the role, rather than political considerations.

Anwar’s message to the public is clear: respect the Constitution, trust the process, and allow the judiciary to function independently and impartially. This is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy and a vital safeguard for the rights and freedoms of all Malaysians. The government remains dedicated to protecting the judiciary and ensuring its continued role as a pillar of justice in the nation.

The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating his commitment to working with all stakeholders to further strengthen the Malaysian judicial system and ensure its continued integrity and effectiveness.