Sanusi's sedition case not complex, can be heard by Sessions Court: DPP

 

There is no need to transfer Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s sedition case from the Selayang Sessions Court to the Shah Alam High Court as it does not involve complex legal issues, the prosecution contended.

Deputy public prosecutor Masri Mohd Daud made the contention in an affidavit to object to the PAS leader’s bid to have the High Court hear the sedition case instead of the lower court.

“This case does not involve difficult, complex or extraordinary issues of law that require a full trial before the High Court.

“There have been many legal precedents set by the higher court over the issue of the Sedition Act 1948 (Act 15).

“The learned Sessions Court judge is competent and authoritative to preside over criminal cases within the jurisdiction of the Sessions Court, including cases under Act 15 for which the applicant (Sanusi) is charged,” Masri said in the affidavit filed at the High Court yesterday.

Before the Sessions Court in July last year, Sanusi (above) claimed trial for uttering seditious words regarding the appointment of the Selangor menteri besar, and the establishment of the federal coalition government.

The Jeneri assemblyperson was alleged to have committed both offences during a political talk at Simpang 4, Taman Selayang Mutiara-Kampung Bendahara, Gombak at 11pm on July 11 last year.

Both charges were framed under Section 4(1)(a) of the Sedition Act 1948 and punishable under Section 4(1) of the same law, which specifies a maximum fine of RM5,000 or a jail term of up to three years, or both. - Mkini