What grounds for removal of the Public Prosecutor have been expanded?

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Expanded Grounds for Public Prosecutor Removal Now Include Ethical Breaches

The grounds for the removal of the Public Prosecutor have been broadened to encompass the violation of any provision within a prescribed code of ethics. This significant expansion builds upon the existing stipulations that allowed for removal based on inability, infirmity of body or mind, or misconduct or misbehaviour. The inclusion of ethical breaches introduces a new category of potential reasons for dismissal, as outlined in proposed amendments.
Addition of Ethical Code Violations

Previously, Clause (9) of the relevant article stipulated that a Public Prosecutor could be removed if the Judicial and Legal Service Commission represented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong that the individual was unable to properly discharge their functions due to infirmity, or if they were involved in misconduct or misbehaviour. The amended Clause (9) explicitly adds to these grounds the "breach of any provision of the code of ethics prescribed under Clause (19)."
Establishment of a Code of Ethics

The introduction of a code of ethics for the Public Prosecutor is a novel development stemming from the proposed amendments. Clause (19) suggests that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, acting on the advice of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, may establish such a code in writing. This provision lays the groundwork for defining specific ethical standards that the Public Prosecutor is expected to uphold.
Strengthening Parliamentary Scrutiny and Oversight

These amendments are part of a broader effort to enhance Parliament's role in the appointment and oversight of the Public Prosecutor. The proposed changes, developed by the parliamentary special select committee (PSSC), aim to introduce more transparency and accountability into the process. The committee's work has considered input from various stakeholders, including government and opposition MPs, legal experts, and civil society organisations.

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What grounds for removal of the Public Prosecutor have been expanded?

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