I FULLY support the opposition coalition’s call for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to take a temporary leave, thus allowing for the appointment of an interim PM to manage the current crisis over judicial appointments.
This demand aligns with the initiative by former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and eight other PKR MPs who are pushing for the establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to determine whether Anwar had a hand in installing pliant and malleable judges in the Federal Court.
It also resonates with the palace’s call to uphold judicial independence and integrity.
(Editor’s Note: Istana Negara has urged all parties against politicising the appointment of judges to top judicial positions following complaints by some over delays in the appointments.
In a statemen yesterday (July 10), the palace said the appointment of top judges is an important national matter that must be handled carefully with integrity and in line with the Federal Constitution.)
Under the current Federal Constitution, the PM advises the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA) on judicial appointments after consulting the Council of Rulers.
While the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) proposes candidates, the PM ultimately holds the decisive power in recommending appointments. In this case, Anwar wields disproportionate influence over who sits on the bench.
A critical question remains: Did the JAC submit its recommendations – and if so – did Anwar act upon them or bypass them?
Judiciary breaches
The appointment of former Attorney-General (AG) Tan Sri Ahmad Terrirudin Mohd Salleh as a Federal Court judge has only heightened concerns about executive interference.
The situation escalated further when the AG’s Chambers (AGC) controversially issued discharges not amounting to acquittals (DNAA) for two senior UMNO leaders, thus raising serious questions about backroom deals and compromised justice.
Adding to the political storm is a civil suit filed by former research assistant Yusoff Rawther who accused Anwar of sexual misconduct.
The PM has sought immunity from the Federal Court on eight constitutional points – an unusual move that suggests deep concern over the potential fall-out.
Although the Court of Appeal has stayed the civil trial, the possibility of public disclosure of damaging details has clearly rattled Anwar.
When he was in opposition, Anwar could argue political persecution. Now, as the sitting PM, that argument no longer holds weight.
Dissent is also brewing within PKR itself. The call from nine of its MPs for an RCI and for Anwar to testify before a parliamentary select committee signals internal fractures and eroding support.
All of this reinforces the logic behind the opposition’s call for Anwar to take a temporary leave with an interim Perikatan Nasional (PN) appointed PM candidate pending the conclusion of the RCI.
Meanwhile, the country is on edge. Civil society groups and NGOs are gearing up for protests, and the Malaysian Bar Council is set to lead a protest march in Putrajaya next week.
Malaysia’s democratic institutions, especially its judiciary, are at a crossroads. For the sake of transparency, accountability and national stability, it is time for Anwar to step aside – at least temporarily. – July 11, 2025
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
