As Rais Yatim rightly pointed out in The Star recently, it is a sacrifice to the nation that judges lead a lonely life. They ought to be accorded respect.

It is also timely that the newly installed chief justice has rapped errant judges for improprieties like accepting bribes or seeming to be in cahoots with prosecutors or corporate leaders. He called o­n these judges to resign and not tarnish the institution of the judiciary.

The judiciary is really a sacred institution and should be totally independent of any regime or influence of powerful figures. It is regularly seen to be blindfolded, in other words, totally impartial and serving the nation as protector of the constitution and its laws.

The judiciary cannot be seen to be an interested party in the political landscape of the nation.

For example, it would be wrong for any judge or member of the judiciary to be seen in meetings at the prime minister's residence or office, or to be seen with the attorney-general or any senior politician or corporate figure, because the judiciary does not represent any branch of government. It is independent. I am glad the chief justice has recognised this.

If the chief justice is to be believed, we hope to begin seeing restoration of the judiciary to its proper standing in service to the nation.

Trust and faith from the public will come in due time when we begin seeing judgements that are above reproach, and which are truthful, honest and have integrity.