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THE Conference of Rulers is expected to announce the appointment of the highest judicial post tomorrow, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that a long discussion on the matter was held at the meeting today.
"This morning, I had a long discussion with the Conference of Rulers and I think, let them make the decision and tomorrow, hopefully there will be an announcement that will end all the negative perceptions involved.
"God willing, when the announcement is made, it will prove that this government, the MADANI Government, is truly committed to reform, including the principle of judicial independence," he said.
He said this when speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the International Integrity and Governance Conference 2025 today.
The positions became vacant after Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat and Court of Appeal President Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim reached the mandatory retirement age of 66 on 2 and 3 July respectively.
Given the gravity of these appointments, the Council of Rulers plays a vital constitutional role in the process, as stipulated under Article 122B(1) of the Federal Constitution.
The Chief Justice is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the Prime Minister, following consultation with the Council.
This provision also applies to the appointments of the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of Malaya, and Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak.
Anwar said he acknowledged that there were concerns over the issue, in addition to creating a perception that several appointments to important positions in the judiciary might be affected.
"I can assure you, that is not the case. I am sure my colleagues in the legal profession respect the fact that we must work based on the law and facts, not perceptions.
"....and let the issue of perception be the business of politicians. Only in that way can we continue to govern well.
"I hope it does not affect the stance of the Bar Council, because that is what they believe and even though I strongly deny it, it still has not satisfied some of them, perhaps because of certain political games," he said.
He stressed that the government is committed to ensuring that the independence of the judiciary is respected.
Therefore, he once again stressed that the MADANI Government is committed to reform, including the principle of independence of the judiciary.
"After more than two and a half years in office, I have never discussed any case with any judge, not with the Chief Justice, nor any other judge. I firmly adhere to the principle of judicial independence," he said. - July 15, 2025
