A fiery debate unfolded in the Dewan Rakyat today as Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said clashed with Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu) over the separation of the attorney-general (AG) and public prosecutor (PP) roles, highlighting tensions between the unity government and the opposition.
Azalina Defends Government’s Reform Efforts
Azalina accused Takiyuddin, a former law minister under Muhyiddin Yassin’s administration, of failing to advance the AG-PP separation during his tenure in 2020. She contrasted this with the Madani government’s proactive approach, stating, “We are different. We walk the talk, not just spew rhetoric.” Her remarks underscored the unity government’s commitment to institutional reform, dismissing claims of empty promises.
Takiyuddin’s Push for Inquiry
The exchange began when Takiyuddin, the PAS secretary-general, questioned whether the government would establish a royal commission of inquiry to investigate the leak of the Judicial Appointments Commission’s (JAC) minutes and a royal addendum involving former prime minister Najib Razak. He argued that these incidents damaged the AG’s Chambers’ reputation and were relevant to the ongoing debate on separating the AG and PP roles.
Azalina declined to address the inquiry directly, citing sub judice concerns to avoid prejudicing ongoing legal matters. She emphasised that integrity is a shared responsibility across all government roles, redirecting the focus to broader accountability.
Tensions Flare in Parliament
Unsatisfied, Takiyuddin accused Azalina of “playing politics” and evading his question, sharply remarking, “If you don’t dare to answer, just say so.” The pointed retort prompted Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul to intervene, urging MPs to remain calm and conserve their energy on the first day of parliamentary proceedings.
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