Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli has renewed calls for a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate alleged irregularities in the judicial appointment process, saying the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) has only compounded growing concerns over judicial integrity with its recent statement.
Responding to the AGC’s comments issued after a press conference by nine KEADILAN MPs, Rafizi said the explanation inadvertently confirmed key concerns, particularly the delays in appointments and procedural issues within the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC).
Among the issues raised were the failure to act on JAC recommendations, convening meetings without proper notice, and serious allegations involving a Federal Court judge allegedly influencing rulings and case assignments, all reportedly discussed within the JAC.
“While I appreciate the AGC’s response, it actually validates our concerns,” Rafizi said.
He criticized the AGC for downplaying the seriousness of the matter and argued that such statements reinforce public perception that the executive may be interfering in judicial selections.
Though the Prime Minister holds constitutional authority to appoint judges from a list provided by the JAC, Rafizi suggested the delay in filling vacancies points to disagreement with JAC recommendations.
“Legal justification is one thing, but public perception matters just as much,” he stressed.
He added that judicial integrity must be measured not just by compliance with rules, but by the public’s confidence in impartiality and fairness.
“It’s not for the AGC to decide whether the allegations are premature,” Rafizi said, noting the AGC itself admitted that the JAC discussed claims involving a Federal Court judge.
He reiterated his call for an RCI to thoroughly investigate and restore trust in the system.
“Failure to address these concerns only undermines the credibility of the Prime Minister and the government. It is wiser to act now than allow the opposition to exploit the issue,” he said.
