Bar Wants Answers Over Judicial Interference Claim To Obtain Jac Minutes

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The Malaysian Bar has voiced deep concern over an allegation that a judge was questioned by the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) regarding possible interference in judicial affairs.
In a statement, Bar president Ezri Abdul Wahab said the Bar will seek the necessary orders to obtain the minutes of the JAC meeting held on May 16.
He stressed that if the allegations are true, they raise grave concerns about the integrity and independence of the judiciary, an institution that must remain free from any form of influence or manipulation.
“The Malaysian Bar is of the view that allegations of judicial interference go beyond the confines of a mere disciplinary matter. They strike at the heart of public confidence in the administration of justice,” he said.
Ezri said the issue concerns not only propriety, but also the structural integrity and independence of the judiciary.
“In light of this, and in the interest of public accountability and transparency, the Malaysian Bar will be pursuing the necessary orders to obtain the minutes of the said JAC meeting.
“This is necessary to ascertain the facts, to preserve institutional integrity, and to ensure that any necessary corrective steps can be taken without compromising the law,” he added.
Emphasising that judicial independence is non-negotiable, Ezri said it is a constitutional guarantee and a pillar of the democratic framework.
“Any conduct - actual or perceived - that undermines this principle must be addressed swiftly and with full transparency.
“If the report is found to be untrue, that too must be clarified with equal urgency to avoid unwarranted damage to the reputation of our judiciary.
“The Malaysian Bar calls upon all institutions involved to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves. We reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and to the protection of judicial independence, without fear or favour,” he added.
Judge evades question, lodges police report
Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that a police report lodged on behalf of a senior judge, following a query by the news portal, had been leaked.
The police report was made after Malaysiakini contacted the judge on June 12, seeking comment on certain allegations reportedly made during the JAC meeting.
The judge did not respond and instead instructed his officer to lodge a police report on the same day.
Following that, Bukit Aman’s classified crimes unit recorded statements from Malaysiakini executive editor RK Anand and news editor Zikri Kamarulzaman.
The police report has since been leaked on WhatsApp and is now circulating among legal practitioners.
Earlier today, the Defend the Judiciary Secretariat called on the senior judge to recuse himself from hearing any cases. - Mkini

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