I told police my tweets are my views alone, says Zaid

Former law minister Zaid Ibrahim confirmed today that he had been questioned by the police over his tweets in relation to Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

However, Zaid said he had explained to police that the tweets expressed his views alone and not the views of other quarters or the opposition.

"(I explained to the police that) I feel obliged to explain the role of the constitutional monarchy, how we must maintain the democratic system by understanding what needs to be done by all quarters," he told reporters outside the Bukit Aman police headquarters today after being questioned for an hour.

Zaid also thanked the police, whom he said had acted professionally in questioning him.

The DAP member added that he was told that he would be called up again if the need arises.

"I think that's normal. Police can always call you anytime. I told them that I won't be on holiday so I can come anytime," he said.

In an interview with The Star on Dec 5, the Selangor ruler had said that former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's anger could raze the nation.

Sultan Sharafuddin also described Mahathir as someone with an “inferiority complex” and “deep hatred”.

Zaid then tweeted that the Selangor ruler “should be careful with his words” and that “no one is immune when the country burns”.

His comment courted flak from Umno leaders who, among others, torched cardboard cutouts of the former minister. The sultan himself rebuked Zaid for being rude.

Previously, inspector-general of police Mohd Fuzi Harun confirmed that Zaid is being probed under the Sedition Act 1948. He is also being investigated under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

Last week, Zaid, when asked if he would apologise to the ruler, said he was merely following the Islamic tradition of offering advice to the rulers.

Zaid also maintained that he had done nothing wrong and there was no element of sedition in his tweets.- Mkini