Home Civil Society Voices Federal Court’s landmark verdict on Najib reshapes Malaysia’s judicial independence

Federal Court’s landmark verdict on Najib reshapes Malaysia’s judicial independence

Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat

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Federal Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat convicted Najib Razak on all seven counts in the SRC International case on 23 August, and he is sentenced to immediate jail time.

The Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH) expresses relief at this judgment.

Chief Justice Tengku Maimun maintained an impartial and non-partisan manner in handling Najib’s case, thus making a fair and neutral ruling.

With his online popularity, Najib tried to use his influence to distort the fabric of social values and downplay the act of theft.

While the case was going on trial, Najib made many public speeches and set off a “Bossku” (My boss) trend on social media. He even shamelessly asked his supporters: “Malu apa?” (What shame?), and became an international laughing stock.

Najib’s theft and criminal breach of trust not only violated the Rukun Negara (National Principles) but sowed seeds of contempt for the blueprint of the national anti-corruption plan 2019-2023.

With Najib now imprisoned, KLSCAH believes this will end the spotlight on the Najib “Malu apa, bossku?” era and detach our citizens from its distorted and sensational values.

Former Chief Justice Mohamed Raus Sharif has publicly stated that the judiciary as an institution should not be subservient to anyone other than the Federal Constitution.

The public has long questioned whether Malaysia’s judiciary is under the control of the legislature, which might have influenced the final verdict of his trial.

However, Najib’s conviction not only means that Malaysia still has an independent judicial system. It serves as a warning to all politicians – that no one in power or in opposition – should be corrupt and abusive and that they will face the law equally if they commit crimes.

READ MORE:  Perbicaraan berkenaan pengampunan Najib perlu dibuat secara terbuka

After the 2020 ‘Sheraton Move’, Malaysia has more balanced power among the three forces; an effective system of checks and balances that serves as a symbol of Malaysia’s progress towards a sound, democratic system.

Despite a somewhat unsatisfactory conclusion to the trial, had Barisan Nasional not fallen during the 2018 general election, the Najib case would not have concluded this soon. This is proof that the voters’ votes have advanced the democratic process in Malaysia.

Therefore, KLSCAH would like to call on all voters, to vote in the coming general election to maximise the power of their votes, and fulfil their civic duty. – KLSCAH

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
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Gursharan Singh
Gursharan Singh
25 Aug 2022 9.06pm

He may be eligible for remission resulting in prison less than 8 yrs or lesser if pardoned.
If pardoned will it not nullify all the efforts to bring him to justice even after being found guilty after almost four years of investigations and court procedures
Bless all

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