Independent judiciary the foundation of democracy

THE Malaysian Bar is concerned by how the leadership transition at the highest level of the judiciary is being handled. With the retirement of Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat as Chief Justice now concluded, the absence of a clear and timely succession plan reflects a lapse in institutional responsibility.

In an earlier statement, we cautioned against delay and silence in matters affecting judicial leadership and public confidence. Unfortunately, we are now faced with a situation that should have been avoided in a functioning constitutional democracy.