Pm Has Conflict Of Interest In Selecting Judges Due To Civil Case Says Hamzah

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 The opposition leader calls for an interim prime minister to be appointed to take over the duties.
Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin said suspicion of political interference in judicial appointments had risen due to the prime minister’s civil case.PETALING JAYA: Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin contends that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has a conflict of interest in his role in the appointment of top judges due to his civil case which is pending in the court
Hamzah said this situation has caused suspicion of political interference in judicial appointments to arise.
He was referring to Anwar’s application to refer eight questions of law to the apex court, including whether he has immunity from a civil suit as the prime minister.
“Therefore I call for the prime minister to take a leave of absence and for an interim prime minister to be appointed to carry out the duties under Article 122B of the Federal Constitution.
“This will eliminate prejudice towards the process of judicial appointments and public perception that the prime minister will be determining the judges who will preside over his case,” the Bersatu deputy president said in a statement.
He added that this was crucial to safeguard the integrity, independence and honour of the judiciary.
There have been calls for a royal commission of inquiry and a parliamentary committee hearing following delays in the appointment of top judicial positions, including that of chief justice.
Chief Judge of Malaya Hasnah Hashim is serving as acting chief justice following Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat’s retirement, while Federal Court judge Zabariah Yusof is the acting Court of Appeal president after Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim retired last week.
Earlier today, Istana Negara urged all parties not to politicise the matter, saying such appointments must be handled carefully, with integrity and in line with the constitution. - FMT

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