Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended his role in judicial appointments after facing weeks of criticism from legal professionals. Speaking to reporters following Friday prayers at Surau Al-Istiqlal, he dismissed accusations that he favored former attorney general Ahmad Terrirudin Salleh for Chief Justice. The prime minister called such claims unfounded political maneuvering by unnamed lawyers. He emphasized that Salleh's name never appeared in discussions with the Conference of Rulers. Anwar stated he has maintained strict boundaries regarding judicial independence throughout his tenure.
The controversy ends with Wan Ahmad Farid's selection as Malaysia's 17th Chief Justice, effective July 28. Farid succeeds Tengku Maimun, who stepped down on July 2 after completing her term. The government also named Abu Bakar Jais to lead the Court of Appeal and appointed Azizah Nawawi as Chief Judge for Sabah and Sarawak. Anwar stressed his administration has never removed or transferred judges arbitrarily. He vowed to preserve judicial dignity and independence.
The controversy ends with Wan Ahmad Farid's selection as Malaysia's 17th Chief Justice, effective July 28. Farid succeeds Tengku Maimun, who stepped down on July 2 after completing her term. The government also named Abu Bakar Jais to lead the Court of Appeal and appointed Azizah Nawawi as Chief Judge for Sabah and Sarawak. Anwar stressed his administration has never removed or transferred judges arbitrarily. He vowed to preserve judicial dignity and independence.
