Azmi fails to get his sedition trial moved to High Court

Universiti Malaya law professor Azmi Sharom's sedition trial will continue to be heard at the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court.

High Court judge Ab Karim Ab Rahman today dismissed Azmi's application to have the case transferred to the High Court.

Lawyer Gobind Singh Deo made the application, citing section 417 of the Criminal Procedure Code where the High Court has the power to transfer cases where it appears that a fair trial cannot be made at the subordinate court.

However, Justice Ab Karim ruled there were no exceptional circumstances and evidence that Azmi would be subject to an unfair trial.

"Hence, the application (to transfer) is dismissed," ruled the judge.

Gobind tried to apply for a stay as he indicated he will appeal today's decision but Justice Ab Karim refused and asked for Gobind to apply to the Sessions Court.

The Sessions Court has fixed tomorrow for the first day of hearing but Gobind told reporters that he will file a notice of appeal tomorrow and seek a stay.

Azmi is charged with sedition for his comments suggesting that the Perak route be taken to resolve the Selangor imbroglio in 2014.

[More to follow]

-Mkini