By P. Ramasamy
I fully support the opposition coalition’s call for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to take a temporary leave, allowing for the appointment of an interim prime minister to manage the current crisis over judicial appointments.
This demand aligns with the initiative by former Economy Minister 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.
Under the current Constitution, the prime minister advises the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on judicial appointments after consulting the Council of Rulers. While the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) proposes candidates, the prime minister 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?
The appointment of the former Attorney General as a Federal Court judge has only heightened concerns about executive interference. The situation escalated further when the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) controversially issued discharges not amounting to acquittals (DNAA) for two senior UMNO leaders, raising serious questions about backroom deals and compromised justice.
Adding to the political storm is a civil suit filed by former aide Yusoff Rawther, accusing Anwar of sexual misconduct. The Prime Minister sought immunity from the Federal Court on eight constitutional points—an unusual move that suggests deep concern over the potential fallout. 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 prime minister, 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 prime minister appointed 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.
(The views expressed are those of the contributor and do not necessarily reflect the views of Rebuilding Malaysia.)
P. Ramasamy
Chairman Urimai
July 11, 2025
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