‘No constitutional crisis’, AGC dismisses call for RCI on judicial appointments

PETALING JAYA: The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) has dismissed calls for a royal commission of inquiry (RCI) into judicial appointments, stating that the process was conducted in accordance with the Federal Constitution.

In a statement on Tuesday (July 8), the AGC asserted that the situation did not amount to a constitutional crisis, and any suggestion otherwise is unfounded, even if there were discrepancies in timing and procedure.

“Article 122B of the Constitution states that the appointment of superior court judges is made by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the Prime Minister, following consultation with the Conference of Rulers,” said the AGC.

“The appointments under the Federal Constitution must be handled carefully so that the roles of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong do not become a matter of ‘political polemics’.”

The AGC emphasised that it is inappropriate to politicise the roles of the Prime Minister or the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, as both institutions must operate independently under the Constitution.

The statement was issued in response to demands from Pandan MP Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and several PKR MPs for an RCI and a parliamentary select committee hearing following delays in appointing top judicial positions, including the Chief Justice.

Regarding allegations that Judicial Appointment Commission (JAC) meetings were convened without adequate notice, the AGC stated that in urgent situations, it is common for meetings to proceed with short notice if all members agree.

“Procedural matters should not invalidate JAC deliberations unless there is clear evidence of bad faith or prejudice,” it said.

The AGC urged all parties to uphold the rule of law and the separation of powers, and to refrain from undermining institutional integrity with unwarranted public pressure or political narratives.