PUTRAJAYA — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that judicial appointments and service extensions are not automatic and must strictly follow constitutional procedures — not political influence.

He explained that extensions, whether for judges or civil servants nearing retirement, require proper process involving the commission, the Prime Minister, the King, and consultation with the Conference of Rulers.

His remarks come amid speculation over Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat’s possible extension as she approaches mandatory retirement at age 66 on July 2.

Anwar also addressed claims of political interference in recent high-profile court cases involving Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, both of whom received DNAA (discharge not amounting to acquittal). He stressed that judicial decisions are independent and not his responsibility.

Anwar reaffirmed his role is to safeguard judicial independence and not to influence court outcomes.