KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s application for leave to initiate judicial review regarding the addendum order, which he claimed is from the former Yang di-Pertuan Agong, involves public interest and public funds.
Therefore, it is important for it to be conducted openly and transparently for the public, said the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) on X today.
This came in response to the decision by high court judge Amarjeet Singh who presided over the matter, allowing a request from Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah to bar the press from covering Najib’s application hearing.
Shafee, who is Najib’s lead counsel said the matter should be moved in-chambers due to its sensitive nature.
Bersih also raised the question of why the Attorney-General’s Chambers did not object to this application.
It added that they are expected to provide a clear explanation to the public regarding the rationale behind their actions.
“The trial of such a high-profile case should be seen as transparent and open because the public has the right to know the true status of the case being tried.
“If not, it will create a double standard perception, which can erode public confidence in the government and our nation’s justice systems,” it added.
Bersih also stressed that the principle of equal justice and openness should always be raised as the main principle to preserve the country’s justice system and the rule of law.
It was reported that senior federal counsel Shamsul Bolhassan and Ahmad Hanir Hambaly did not object to the request made by Shafee.
Justice Amarjeet fixed June 5 to deliver his decision on the leave application.
Najib filed the application for leave for judicial review through the law firm Messrs Shafee & Co on April 1. – April 18, 2024