PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar who was among those who took part in the Malaysian Bar march today called for a probe into allegations of judicial interference and leak of what is believed to be confidential minutes from a Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) meeting.
In a statement, she said concerns about interference in the judiciary have been strengthened by the leaked police report that a judge's aide lodged, as well as the leak of purported JAC minutes.
"It is important that these allegations be investigated to restore trust in our judiciary," she said.
She said investigations can commence under Article 125 of the Federal Constitution through the establishment of an independent tribunal comprising at least five senior judges.
"Such actions will go a long way to preserve the faith in the systems, she said, adding that the judiciary, executive and the legislature exist to keep one another in check by ensuring that no single branch can operate without accountability.
Izzah said she attended the walk to safeguard the judiciary.
"Today, we exercise the right to peaceful assembly guaranteed by the constitution and upheld by the Prime Minister.
"In the spirit of reform and justice, which are the foundations of Keadilan, we need to improve the existing structure by making it more transparent.
"An independent judiciary is the essential bulwark against overreach by the executive, the cabinet, and the government as a whole," she said.
Izzah said that for justice to be upheld, it was crucial that there is no interference in the judiciary, whether external or internal.
"Bearing all this in mind, the most crucial thing in an independent judicial system is the lack of interference from internal or external forces.
"As such, persons appointed as the Chief Justice of Malaya; President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge of Malaya and the Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak must not only be capable but also be of the highest moral integrity to carry out the job," she added. – July 14, 2025
