He said the Bar had always spoken up on matters involving the rule of law and would do so no matter how sensitive the issues were.
“However, the Bar will not delve into matters prematurely, (when) they are still under police investigation, in the domain of the courts or without having full facts,” he told FMT.
Fareed said the Bar must act responsibly and not play into the hands of third parties to advance their interest or to speak at the behest of the press to make news for them.
He said this following a FMT report earlier today that the present Bar leadership had failed to make its stand known on key fundamental issues linked to religion and politics.
Former Bar president Ragunath Kesavan had said the lawyers’ group in the past had never shied away from the fight for reforms.
“We have always been at the forefront of advocating reforms, confronting the government and institutions for accountability, and pushing for the rule of law. We must never abrogate our duty and calling,” he had said.
Meanwhile, senior lawyer and retired judge Gopal Sri Ram also said previous Bar leaders had responded swiftly to the government of the day, such as by issuing press statements on issues of public interest.
He said the Bar had also come to the aid of those detained under the now-defunct Internal Security Act in 1987 during the crackdown on politicians and civil society leaders under Operasi Lalang.
Sri Ram noted the Bar had become more of a social club.
They made these comments in the wake of a direct election to pick 12 members to the council for 2020/2021. They had expressed concern that candidates were campaigning along religious and racial lines. They feel it is an unhealthy trend.
Fareed today said the Bar operates based on the Legal Profession Act 1976 which, among others, is to uphold the cause of justice without fear or favour.
“The Malaysian Bar Council will continue to show its concern every time there is transgression of the rule of law and abuse of human rights,” he added.
He said the labelling of the Bar as a mere social club was irresponsible and unfair.
“The council and members of approximately 40 committees are working throughout the year in carrying out regulatory functions and making members practice as seamlessly as possible, he added.