Rosmah verdict: The only opinion that matters is my own, says Justice Zaini

KUALA LUMPUR: High Court Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan dismissed Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor’s last-minute bid to recuse him from her corruption case, saying he personally writes all his judgments based on law and facts.

Rosmah had filed an application to disqualify Justic Zaini from hearing the RM1.25bil hybrid solar project case due to a risk of bias on his part because of the existence of a "purported draft judgment".

ALSO READ: Rosmah verdict: RM970mil fine sets record as highest imposed so far under MACC Act

"Sorry to keep everyone waiting. I couldn't find anyone to write my judgment, so I had to write my own.

"I hope the research unit forgives me but I did not read their opinions... Truth be told, I have always done my own work, as laborious as it is. Anyone can form their own opinion, but the only opinion that matters is my own,” said Justice Zaini.

ALSO READ: Rosmah verdict: Ex-PM's wife sentenced to 10 years' jail, fined RM970mil

He said the purported leaked judgment on Rosmah’s case was not the grounds of judgment prepared by him, and he would not use them in the judgment.

"I have done my research. I have written 200 judgments to date, and I wrote all of them. Many do not realise how difficult my job is. I have no prejudice against her (Rosmah),” he added.

ALSO READ: Rosmah verdict: Ex-PM's wife breaks down in court after being found guilty

He said the decision on Rosmah’s case was based on facts and law.

"Whatever feeling, we leave it at the door step before sitting on the bench,” he said when dismissing Rosmah’s application to recuse him.

ALSO READ: Rosmah verdict: Ex-PM's wife guilty on all three charges, High Court rules

Rosmah, 70, filed the last-minute application on the grounds of a purported leaked judgment of her case which was prepared by another party that had gone viral on Aug 26.

After dismissing Rosmah’s application, the judge pronounced her guilty on all three corruption charges involving the RM1.25 billion hybrid solar project for 369 rural schools in Sarawak. - Bernama