By M Santhananaban
Mid-way into 2025, the government has by design or by default provided some intriguing plans to turn the routine appointment of a chief justice into an exciting encumbrance and experience.
The latest episode in this drama is the attention being given to leaks of some classified information. The police are reportedly investigating.
Let us hope some clues about what has happened will emerge.
In a democracy, governments are elected to provide accountable, good governance with integrity and transparency.
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The business of the judiciary, led by the chief justice, is often more complex than that of the executive. In interpreting the Constitution, the judiciary has to show integrity, transparency and independence.
In Malaysia, this element of independence is fundamental to the proper functioning of the judiciary. Unfortunately, it is sometimes construed by the government as being disrespectful, disloyal or disruptive.
We need to persuade our political leaders and Parliament that the Constitution – and not any branch of government – is supreme in Malaysia.
After the tenure of the first three prime ministers ended – from 1981 onwards – this seems to be the biggest challenge in the country.
Let us hope there will be wisdom, sanity and sobriety in arriving at a positive, peaceful and prompt resolution of this matter.
Dato’ M Santhananaban is a retired ambassador with over 45 years of public sector experience.
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
