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©New Straits Times (Used by permission)
by Anis Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR: An acceptable candidate has been proposed for the post of chief judge of Malaya and this may end the months-long delay over the appointment of the country’s third-most senior judicial officer.

A highly-placed source told the New Straits Times that a "capable and suitable" Federal Court judge had been endorsed as a possible successor to Tan Sri Siti Norma Yaakob, who retired in January.

"A candidate suggested earlier by the chief justice will not be the new chief judge of Malaya."

The prolonged vacancy had been much talked about, particularly after press reports alleged an earlier nominee had been rejected by the Conference of Rulers.

Chief Justice Tun Ahmad Fairuz Sheikh Abdul Halim assumed the role and function of the chief judge of Malaya three days after Siti Norma’s retirement.

His decision had not gone down well with the legal fraternity.

Bar Council chairman Ambiga Sreenevasan said that under the Courts of Judicature Act 1964, Ahmad Fairuz could not be the chief justice and the chief judge of Malaya at the same time.

"The chief justice must designate another Federal Court judge other than himself as the chief judge," Ambiga said.

Earlier this month, Ahmad Fairuz said the vacancy would be filled by the end of the month.

"I am not at liberty to disclose the name now. It is classified under the Official Secrets Act."

The NST understands that the delay in the appointment was partly due to the rejection of the candidate originally nominated by Ahmad Fairuz.

The source added: "A decision has yet to be made, but the new nominee is a good candidate for chief judge."

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