Matthias: How is representing my client a crime?

It's not known whether the charge sheet against the duo was accompanied by an Affidavit by the Bank Negara Governor on the allegations on sabotage.

KUALA LUMPUR: Senior lawyer Matthias Chang told the Court on Monday that although he has practised law for 29 years, he could not fathom why he and his client, sacked Umno Batu Kawan deputy divisional chief Khairuddin Abu Hassan, have been dragged to Court on “sabotage” charges.

Chang, in white shirt and pants but no longer sporting his familiar hairstyle, asked Justice Azman Husin from the dock, where he was seated with his client, how their visiting police stations and prosecution offices in various European and Asian countries invited a “sabotaging banking and financial services” charge against them.

“I have practiced for 29 years. I am confused,” he said. “How could myself accompanying my client to perform a lawful duty end in consequences that made us punishable under Section 124L of the Penal Code?”

Chang added that he was shocked that the prosecution framed the charge under Section 124L, implying that mere visitation can be considered “sabotage”.

“I seek my lord to explain what our charge is,” he pleaded with Justice Azman.

Both Khairuddin and Chang were charged last Monday at the Magistrate Court for “sabotage” relating to the country’s banking and financial services.

Subsequently, the duo’s lawyers Zainur Zakaria and Haniff Khatri Abdulla, filed for review of Section 124L falling under Sosma’s jurisdiction.

It’s not known whether the charge sheet against the duo was accompanied by an Affidavit by the Bank Negara Governor on the allegations on sabotage.