As CJ retirement looms, Fadhli contrasts Tengku Maimun and Azam

Summary

• PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari touches on the contrasting treatment received by Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat as opposed to MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki.

• He says that despite massive public support, the government does not seem to be eager to extend Tengku Maimun’s tenure, while the unpopular Azam had his tenure extended thrice.

• Fadhli urges Putrajaya to be transparent over its decision-making process or risk having the public lose confidence in one of the nation’s main institutions.

As Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat is set for retirement on July 1, PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari pointed out the contrasting treatment received by the top judge as opposed to MACC chief commissioner Azam Baki.

He said that despite receiving massive support from the legal fraternity, academics, NGOs, and the public, the government does not seem keen to extend Tengku Maimun’s tenure despite the Federal Constitution allowing it.

“Ironically, Azam, who is not popular among MPs, legal experts, and anti-corruption activists, had his tenure extended thrice despite being embroiled in a controversy which was not explained properly to the rakyat,” Fadhli said on Facebook today.

On Monday (June 23), Tengku Maimun said there has been no update regarding the possible extension of her tenure, as well as that of two other judges.

They are Court of Appeal President Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim and Federal Court judge Nallini Pathmanathan.

“No news,” she stated.

Tengku Maimun, the first woman chief justice, is scheduled to go on mandatory retirement on July 1.

Abang Iskandar is due to retire on July 2, while Nallini will reach the mandatory retirement age on Aug 22.

What about merit, integrity?

Fadhli said that while he was not disputing the prime minister and Agong’s authority on tenure extensions, he was curious about the standards used.

“Are merit and integrity still considered, or does political consideration supersede everything else.

“Another question running in people’s minds is whether Tengku Maimun is not getting a tenure extension as she has made several remarks not in line with the government’s wishes?

“If you’re rejecting someone due to their firmness and principles while those with controversies are given extensions, then we will be destroying public confidence in one of our most important institutions,” he said.

Fadhli then urged Putrajaya to explain the matter and be transparent over its decisions.

“Transparency is not an option. It is a must when upholding the rule of law. And stop with the perception games. Protect the Federal Constitution’s sanctity and our institution’s integrity.

“Or continue with this charade because in any case, it’s almost certain you (Pakatan Harapan) won’t be able to form the government after the 16th general election,” he added.

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