Law Minister Azalina Defends AG’s Independence Amid Calls to Re-prosecute Zahid

In a statement made while discussing the 2027 budget, Law Minister Azalina asserted that the constitution empowers the Attorney General to initiate or halt criminal proceedings independently of political influence, stressing that the prime minister does not hold that role. She rebuked MP Rayer’s appeal for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to ensure Zahid’s re-trial over the Yayasan Akalbudi scandal, pointing out that Zahid received a discharge not amounting to an acquittal on all 47 charges and that the Attorney General’s Chambers later classified the case as requiring no further action.

Azalina argued that claims of selective prosecution must be backed by proof and that the AGC has already provided reasons for its decisions. She added that no one should receive legal immunity because of political status, while also insisting that all individuals, including UMNO leaders, deserve a fair legal process free from political targeting. The apex court has granted leave to appeal a ruling that allowed the Malaysian Bar to challenge the DNAA, and the matter remains unresolved.