LETTER | Only through reforms can justice be served

LETTER | In light of recent events that have brought into question the independence of the judiciary, we must emphasise the urgent need for reforms in the judicial system.

As a society founded on the principles of democracy and the rule of law, we must ensure that the judiciary remains free from political interference and upholds the highest standards of ethical conduct.

The Code of Ethics 2009 serves as a guiding document for judges in their professional conduct, highlighting the importance of impartiality, integrity, and respect for the law.

However, recent incidents have demonstrated that these principles need to be upheld in practice so as not to undermine public trust in the judicial system.

Article 5 states: "A judge shall exercise the judicial function independently on the basis of his assessment of the facts and in accordance with his understanding of the law, free from any extraneous influence, inducements, pressure, threat or interference, direct or indirect from any quarter or for any reason."

Separation of powers

Therefore, judges need to be free from all and any factors that would prevent them from exercising judicial functions normally, and this includes the MACC.

The Code of Ethics also states clearly in Article 12 that "any complaint against a judge who is alleged to have committed a breach of any provision of this code shall be made in writing to the Chief Justice of the Federal Court", who would then determine the nature of the breach of this code.

Therefore, in order to address the issue of political interference in the judiciary, we call for the implementation of reforms that uphold the separation of powers.

Any references to the ethical conduct of judges must be referred to the chief justice, as the person responsible for upholding the Code of Ethics 2009.

As a society, we must work together to ensure that the judiciary remains an independent and impartial branch of government that upholds the rule of law.

Only through such reforms can we guarantee that justice is served and that the rights of all citizens are protected.

We urge all stakeholders to join us and our Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in this call for reforms, to ensure that the judiciary remains a beacon of justice and fairness in our society.

JASON ONG KHAN LEE is Kebun Bunga assemblyperson.

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