Anwar Refutes Claims Of Interference, Affirms Judicial Appointments Followed Due Process

PUTRAJAYA, July 18 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly rejected allegations of interference in the recent appointments of Malaysia’s top judges, asserting that the selection process was carried out in full accordance with constitutional procedures.

Anwar stressed that the appointments, including that of the new Chief Justice, were discussed at the Conference of Rulers and received the consent of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, reflecting a smooth and lawful process that upholds the Federal Constitution.

“This Conference of Rulers meeting demonstrates that the process went well and adhered to Article 122B of the Constitution. This stands in stark contrast to the accusations that were made earlier.

“I hope that with this explanation and the decision consented by His Majesty the King, the false accusations and unease that have circulated will come to an end.

“For weeks, we were subjected to slander and criticism, but today it is evident those claims were baseless,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Surau Istiqlal here today.

The Prime Minister also refuted the allegations of political meddling in the selection of candidates for top judicial posts, including what he described as slander against Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh.

“He still has many years in service. His name was never proposed, discussed, or submitted to the King. So, where did these allegations come from? It appears to me that these came from politically motivated figures within the legal community. I don’t believe these views reflect the stance of the broader legal fraternity. I hope this clarification will clear everything,” he said.

Anwar further emphasised the need to end the culture of slander and baseless accusations targeting the judiciary, warning that such attacks could undermine the credibility and integrity of one of the nation's key institutions.

Late last night,  the Federal Court Chief Registrar’s Office, in a statement, announced that Court of Appeal Judge Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of Malaysia.

The appointment was made under Clause (1) of Article 122B of the Federal Constitution, with the King’s consent, following the Prime Minister’s advice and consultation with the Conference of Rulers.

In addition, Federal Court Judge Datuk Abu Bakar Jais has been appointed the Court of Appeal president, while Court of Appeal Judge Datuk Azizah Nawawi will assume the role of Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak, succeeding the outgoing judge.

The swearing-in ceremony is slated to take place at Istana Negara on July 28.

-- BERNAMA