Dr Jeffrey Kitingan
KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan welcomed the Federal Government’s plan to separate the roles of Attorney General (AG) and Public Prosecutor (PP), describing it as a long-overdue but crucial reform to strengthen the rule of law.
He said ending the existing conflict of interest would not only reinforce the justice system but also enhance public confidence in its impartiality.
“Separating the AG and PP is an important step forward. It will improve public trust and ensure that the rule of law is upheld without undue influence,” he said in a statement.
However, Dr Jeffrey stressed that the reform must not stop there, as true judicial independence also requires changes at the level of subordinate courts.
“At present, magistrates and Sessions Court judges — who decide most of the cases faced by ordinary Malaysians — remain under the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, which includes executive office-holders. This leaves room for executive influence over the courts,” he said.
He urged that these judicial officers be placed fully under the Judiciary, with appointments and disciplinary matters overseen by the Chief Justice and senior judges.
“This is in line with international best practices and would restore confidence that justice at every level is free from outside pressure,” he added.
Dr Jeffrey emphasised that the twin reforms — separating the AG and PP, alongside placing subordinate courts under the Judiciary — are necessary to ensure justice that is independent, impartial and credible.
