KUALA LUMPUR: Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin today condemned the Federal Court decision that confirmed Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as the Perak Menteri Besar, saying it could lead to Malaysia becoming an absolute monarchy where a royal ruler could dismiss an elected government at will.
“This is the blackest day for the people of Perak and peace-loving Malaysians,” the former menteri besar told reporters.
“The verdict has set aside all constitutional precedents. Democracy has been torn into pieces.”
The court today rejected Pakatan Rakyat’s bid to reclaim control of Perak following a Barisan Nasional coup last year.
Nizar said the opposition would now consider whether to seek a review of the judgement, which would be its final legal avenue.
Zambry told reporters he would do his best to perform his duties. His message to the opposition was that it was time to work, not to carry on politicking.
Attorney-General Abdul Gani Patail dismissed Nizar’s criticism and said there was no truth to the latter’s charge that Malaysia could turn into an absolute monarchy.
“It’s not right. Everybody has a place, the judiciary, the executive, the sultans, everybody,” he said outside the court.
Malaysia’s much-criticised justice system is also facing a stern test in the ongoing trial of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, who faces sodomy charges that carry a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment.
Anwar has said the allegations are politically motivated and many observers agree.
FMT
10/02/10
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