PM role differs from AG's prosecutorial powers, Azalina tells DAP

Minister Azalina Othman has emphasised that prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in legal considerations, facts and evidence rather than political pressure, in a pointed response to DAP lawmakers raising questions about the Prime Minister's authority in such matters.

The distinction between the office of the Prime Minister and that of the Attorney-General is fundamental to Malaysia's constitutional framework, Azalina stressed. While the PM holds executive authority over government administration, the Attorney-General independently exercises prosecutorial powers under the law.

Her remarks appear directed at DAP politician Fuziah Salleh, who has previously suggested the PM should intervene in ongoing cases. Azalina's statement reinforces the principle of prosecutorial independence, underscoring that legal actions cannot be determined by political considerations or external pressure from any quarter.

The clarification comes as opposition parties continue scrutinising the government's handling of high-profile cases. Officials have repeatedly defended the independence of enforcement agencies and prosecutors in recent weeks, maintaining that all decisions follow established legal protocols and evidentiary standards.