The judge presiding over the defamation suit between Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and former MCA president Dr Ling Liong Sik has decided to recuse himself from hearing the case.

Justice John Louis O' Hara who met lawyers representing both parties in his chambers today, told them that he decided to recuse himself to avoid any negative perceptions.

Najib's lawyer Mohd Hafarizam Harun told reporters that Justice O' Hara studied at the same school as Ling - Royal Military College (RMC) - and they also belong to the Old Putera Association, the school's alumni.

"Following this the case has been transferred to Justice Nor Bee Ariffin who will be presiding the case. Both parties had no objection to the recusal," he said.

When asked if Najib had made an application to recuse Justice O' Hara, Hafarizam said the judge did it on his own accord.

He added that the court also allowed a minor amendment in Ling's application to strike out Najib's suit.

There was no objection from our side and the amendment was allowed, said Hafarizam. No dates have been fixed for the matter before Justice Nor Bee.

'Not fit to be PM'

Najib had filed the suit against Ling for defamation on Oct 29, last year following a report carried by a news portal that quoted the former MCA president and transport minister as calling for Najib's resignation.

This was over allegations of funds entering into the prime minister's personal bank accounts.

Najib, who is also Umno president, had complained that the words uttered by Ling meant that he had abused his powers, was not qualified to be the leader of a government, that he was involved in a scandalous or financial conspiracy and that he was not fit to be the BN chairperson.

Najib is seeking general, aggravated and exemplary damages from the former MCA president besides a written apology.

In reply, Ling filed his defence and counter-claim , questioning why he was singled out for the suit as there were other Umno politicians who had also called for the prime minister's resignation but were not sued by Najib.

Ling also has an affidavit by former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad in support of him.