SHAH ALAM - Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin has questioned Putrajaya over the arrest of caretaker Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Sanusi Md Nor at 3 am, calling it excessive and driven by political vengeance.
Sanusi has been charged with two counts of sedition related to comments made on Malay Ruler's choice for the position of Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
"What is the necessity to treat the Kedah menteri besar in such a manner? Especially when he has apologised on the issue.
"He has also expressed his full cooperation with the police as stated by the notice to appear in court that has been received," Hamzah said in a statement.
Last Friday, the Selangor Council of the Royal Court demanded Sanusi publicly apologise to the state Ruler, asserting that his remarks were an insult since the Sultan has the prerogative to appoint the Menteri Besar.
Sanusi appeared before the Sessions Court in Selayang this morning, where he pleaded not guilty to the two charges of sedition.
Hamzah said Perikatan Nasional's primary policy is to uphold, preserve, and defend the dignity of the Malay Rulers as Constitutional Monarchs, a policy that will be continuously upheld.
"This policy will continuously be maintained," said Hamzah.
Sanusi was charged under Section 4(1)(a) of the Sedition Act 1948, which carries a maximum fine of RM5,000. A gag order has been imposed to prevent Sanusi, as the PN election director, from making any comments regarding the case. He has been offered bail of RM5,000.
He was offered a bail of RM5,000.
Hamzah said the bail by the Attorney-General Chambers shows that the manner of the arrest is excessive compared to the alleged offense.
"I also strongly oppose the selective prosecution and the misuse of the Sedition Act for the purpose of political persecution, considering that leaders who are not part of Perikatan Nasional have made seditious statements without facing legal action," he said.
Hamzah who is also Perikatan Nasional secretary general urged all parties, especially Perikatan Nasional supporters to remain calm and maintain public order.
"Let us pray for Sanusi to be granted justice in court," Hamzah added.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain had said the 3am arrest was made after Sanusi's whereabouts were left unknown in Kedah.
Apart from Sanusi, the investigating officer had also contacted his private secretary and political secretary to notify him (of his charges), but the calls were rejected.