Responding to a question by investigative journalist R Nadeswaran on why the sub-judice rule is still being maintained, Apandi pointed to the “human element” of the judicial system as a reason.

“We can’t take for granted that judges can’t be influenced. There have been instances (where) judges have been influenced.

“Even the mere presence of people in a courtroom can instil fear in a judge. Judges are only human,” he told reporters at a luncheon talk with editors and members of the media here today.

He added that judges have told him of occasions when they were confronted by supporters, sometimes 30 or more, of the accused in a particular case.

“Some judges have told me. They feel the fear. The element of fear is there. To avoid that is better, to still maintain this sub-judice (rule),” he said.