PETALING JAYA: Lawyers for Liberty director Zaid Malek disputes Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s claim that the Sedition Act was used against Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor because it relates to the position and dignity of the rulers. Zaid says the second charge against the Kedah Menteri Besar is about criticizing Anwar over the formation of the unity government.
According to Zaid, Anwar’s statement that the Sedition Act was used only because it involves the position and dignity of the rulers is false. He argues that the use of the Sedition Act in the second charge is an abuse of power related to criticism and mockery of Anwar. Zaid expressed his opinion in a statement issued on Wednesday (July 19).
On Tuesday (July 18), Muhammad Sanusi pleaded not guilty to two charges under the Sedition Act. The second charge was in reference to his speech questioning Anwar’s statement on the Royal Decree and the establishment of the unity government.
In response to the law, Zaid criticized the broad terms used in the Sedition Act, claiming that it gives excessive powers to the government in deciding what constitutes sedition. He argues that this severely limits free speech and political freedoms in Malaysia.
“The Sedition Act 1948 is an unjust law in principle and must be repealed. No matter which party is in government or the reasons behind it, no unjust laws can be made fair,” said Zaid.
Zaid further emphasizes that the government should implement a moratorium on the usage of the Sedition Act and repeal it completely in the next parliament session.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
