Azalina worried over PH-linked individuals getting off criminal charges

(FMT) – Former de facto law minister Azalina Othman Said has questioned the withdrawal of court cases involving individuals linked to the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH), saying it reflects a negative image of Malaysia’s judiciary.

“The PH government should be more careful in its actions so as to avoid a wrong perception about the judiciary and the legal system in the country,” the Pengerang MP said.

She said it was more worrying because the charges involved criminal cases such as sedition, breach of trust and the leak of confidential information.

Adding that the judiciary must remain independent from interference from any quarters, Azalina said all parties must uphold the principle of the rule of law.

Her comments come as several prominent cases involving PH supporters and leaders were withdrawn in the last few weeks.

Yesterday, the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court acquitted Sungai Buloh MP R Sivarasa of a charge of sedition, while a similar charge against cartoonist Zunar was also withdrawn.

A decision on the application to the Attorney-General’s Chambers over graft charges against Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng is still pending.