KOTA KINABALU – Tuaran PKR chief Razeef Rakimin has come to the defense of party vice-president Rafizi Ramli over his recent comments questioning judicial appointments, arguing that internal criticism strengthens governance rather than weakens it.
In a strongly-worded statement Sunday, Razeef positioned Rafizi's concerns as necessary for democratic accountability, particularly amid perceptions of slowing reforms under the Madani government.
Defending Dissent as Reform
Razeef framed the controversy as a litmus test for Pakatan Harapan's commitment to transparency:
- "Criticism is reform in action" – Countered claims that Rafizi's remarks undermined government unity
- Highlighted public frustration over "delayed Madani reforms" and "unresolved issues"
- Noted opposition's weakened state makes government backbenchers' oversight role crucial
"Only after criticism emerges do we get clarifications," he observed, referencing Rafizi's exposure of procedural lapses in the Chief Justice appointment process.
Judicial Independence at Stake
The statement amplified Rafizi's key concerns:
✔ Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) allegedly held meetings without proper notice
✔ Attorney General's Chambers confirmed discussions on judicial interference claims
✔ Renewed calls for Royal Commission of Inquiry and parliamentary oversight
"The judiciary must remain separate from executive and legislative influence," Razeef insisted, warning that public confidence in legal institutions hangs in the balance.
Warning Against Complacency
With biting candor, the Sabah leader cautioned:
- "Absolute power risks corrupting" – Cited fears of government drifting from reform roots
- Arrogance, not criticism, truly endangers public support
- Current supermajority comfort may breed accountability deficits
"Dismissing internal critiques paints us as sycophants," he rebuked, urging colleagues to engage substantively with dissent.
Political Context
The intervention comes as:
- PH grapples with reformist vs pragmatist tensions
- Sabah PKR seeks relevance in state's shifting alliances
- Judiciary faces unprecedented scrutiny post-SSRM appointment controversies
Razeef's decision to publicly back Rafizi signals growing restlessness among PH grassroots over perceived stagnation in institutional reforms promised during the 2022 election campaign.