Suhakam: MACC's Nazlan probe may open ‘floodgate’ against judiciary
In a statement today, the human rights commission questioned the MACC’s motive for the investigation launched against Nazlan.
It also said the proposed investigation will...
Suhakam is calling on the MACC to stop all investigations against judge Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali, as it risks opening a ‘floodgate’ of frivolous charges against the judiciary.
In a statement today, the human rights commission questioned the MACC’s motive for the investigation launched against Nazlan.
It also said the proposed investigation will set a negative and dangerous precedent that may undermine the judiciary’s independence.
“This may also open the floodgate to frivolous and vexatious charges and abuse of process by enforcement agencies against the judiciary.
“Suhakam supports the view that all judges must have the proper space to discharge their judicial duties in a manner apparent to all, and that the judicial process and decision is independent, free of any interference, considered, reasoned, and honest.
“Above all that, it is vital for justice not only to be seen to be done but must be done according to the law,” said Suhakam.
The human rights body noted there are already specific provisions in the Federal Constitution for the judiciary to deal with allegations of wrongdoing against superior court judges.
“Suhakam subscribes to and supports the principle of separation of powers to ensure the integrity and independence of the judiciary is protected and to avoid any interference and political pressure against any member of the judiciary at any time,” said Suhakam.
On April 19, an online post claimed Nazlan (above) was being investigated for over RM1 million he allegedly received from 1MDB-linked fugitive Low Taek Jho, who is also known as Jho Low.
According to a statement by the Federal Court chief registrar's office, Nazlan, in his police report, denied the allegations as false and malicious.
The report urged the police to investigate the matter under Section 500 of the Penal Code for Defamation and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
Nazlan was the trial judge who convicted former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak over the RM42 million SRC International corruption case.
Najib and his legal team are claiming Nazlan had an undisclosed conflict of interest.
This is as the judge used to be a general counsel of Maybank, and his tenure coincided with the time when the commercial bank issued a loan to SRC's parent company, 1MDB.
Najib is hoping this new evidence can secure him a fresh trial.
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