Aliran Media Statement

Malaysians are aghast that the term of tenure of the retiring Chief Justice, Eusoff Chin, has been extended for another six months. Under normal circumstances, such an extension would not have raised one's eyebrows. But under the present situation, it would be seen as an affront to thinking Malaysians.

It is difficult to fathom how Dr Mahathir could have recommended this extension unless it is meant to mock thinking Malaysians and trivialise a serious issue that threatens the very integrity of the Judiciary.

The Bowman Report posted on the Internet convincingly contradicts the CJ's version of his chance meeting with V K Lingam in New Zealand. It seemingly contains damning evidence to suggest that the CJ may have lied.

The Bowman Report raises issues of honour and integrity of a judge. It demands a convincing rebuttal that must clear his name and dismiss all doubts surrounding his conduct. It is the only way to restore confidence in the Judiciary and convince the public that all is well. This is why it is so important for the CJ to refute this report as a matter of honour. He must challenge this report or else he may well be perceived as a liar.

Silence in this instance is not an option for the CJ. His silence will not exonerate him but will certainly incriminate him. He is duty-bound to clear his name and emerge as an upright person in order to uphold the integrity of the Judiciary.

For us in Aliran, we are not so much concerned about his private holiday. We are not concerned who had whose arm around whose shoulders. But we are terribly concerned whether the CJ had lied. That bothers us a lot.

This is why it is important - not only for his sake but for the sake of the Judiciary - that he turns down his extension until his name is cleared. That would be honourable conduct, which would be saluted by all Malaysians.

Today is Eusoff Chin's 65th birthday and he is due for retirement. He will do the Judiciary irreparable damage if he accepts an extension to his term of office when there is a cloud of doubt hanging over his head. The Judiciary must not be tainted by any hint of scandal. The top judge must be seen and be accepted as someone honest and upright who will command the respect of all Malaysians.

When the Head of the Judiciary fails to command the confidence of the public, then Justice is indeed in jeopardy.

P Ramakrishnan
President
20 June 2000