Apandi, govt settle suit over his termination as AG

 

Mohamed Apandi Ali and the government have reached an amicable settlement on his legal challenge over his removal as attorney-general.

His counsel Baljit Singh Sidhu confirmed that Kuala Lumpur High Court judge Akhtar Tahir recorded the settlement during case management of the matter this morning.

“Without prejudice, the government agreed to settle the action without admission of liability. The terms of the settlement are to remain confidential.

“The case is struck off without liberty to file afresh and with no order to costs,” the lawyer told the media.

Apandi (above) was also represented by counsel Abd Shukor Ahmad and Nor Shahadah Saari.

The government and former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad were represented by senior federal counsel Donald Joseph Franklin, Shahriah Shapiee and Abdul Hakim Ab Keram @ Ab Karem.

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad

Previous attempt failed

There was a previous failed attempt to settle the suit last year.

On Oct 13 2020, Apandi filed a suit against Mahathir and the government over his alleged unlawful termination as AG during the previous Pakatan Harapan administration in 2018.

Through the lawsuit, Apandi sought, among others, declarations that first-listed defendant Mahathir had committed misfeasance or misconduct in public office, and that the latter had caused and/or induced a breach of contract between the plaintiff and the second defendant, namely the government.

However, through a statement of defence filed in November 2020, Mahathir and the government insisted that the termination of the contract was valid and in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Constitution.

Under Malaysia’s constitutional monarchy system, the Agong as a general rule acts on the advice of the prime minister, such as on the appointment of an AG. - Mkini