Malaysian Bar files judicial review over Zahid's DNAA

SHAH ALAM - The Malaysian Bar has filed a legal challenge against the Attorney-General's (AG) decision to seek a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) for Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi over 47 corruption charges.

According to media reports, the legal profession’s statutory body is in the midst of initiating judicial review proceedings to challenge the AG's Sept 4 decision, which was granted by the Kuala Lumpur High Court.

The Bar reportedly stressed its statutory duty to uphold justice and act without fear or favour in pursuing this legal action.

It questioned the timing of the AG's decision, given that Zahid's trial had commenced over four years ago, with 77 days of trial already conducted and the defence stage underway.

The Bar also raised concerns about the AG's assertion that further investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) was necessary, as this justification was made three years after the case began.

The Bar argued that the AG's discretionary powers under Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution are not absolute and should be subject to judicial review.

Its president Karen Cheah, highlighted the national and public interest in Zahid's case, given the serious accusations of criminal breach of trust, bribery, and money laundering against a person in power and authority.

The judicial review seeks multiple reliefs, including an order to quash the AG's decision to apply for DNAA and a declaration that the AG's decision is null and void.

Additionally, the Bar seeks a mandamus order to compel the AG to provide all information, documentation, and reasons for seeking DNAA, including the letters of representation issued by Zahid's legal team.